Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs micrographic surgery is a tissue-sparing, precise method of skin cancer removal. It is a surgical approach that offers high cure rates for the treatment of a variety of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinomas (BCC) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC). The main advantage of Mohs surgery is that it offers precise microscopic control of the entire tumor margin while maximizing conservation of healthy tissue.
Mohs Surgery
Step 1: Diagnosis and Preparation
The process of Mohs Micrographic Surgery (MMS) begins with an initial diagnosis, generally for specific types of skin cancer such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. After this diagnosis, patients consult a dermatologist who reviews the condition, medical history, and determines if MMS is the most suitable treatment. This surgery is ideal for cases where cancer is on sensitive or cosmetically significant areas, like the face, because it removes only the affected tissue while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This detailed planning and consideration provide reassurance to patients, emphasizing both safety and aesthetics. During this consultation phase, patients can ask questions, review expectations, and gain confidence that MMS offers them a precise, effective treatment for their skin cancer.
Step 2: Layer-by-Layer Removal
In the second step, the surgeon begins removing the cancerous tissue in thin, systematic layers. After each layer is removed, it is immediately taken to a nearby lab for microscopic examination. This analysis reveals whether cancerous cells remain in the tissue sample. If cancer is still present, the surgeon removes another layer, precisely targeting the areas where cancer cells persist. This approach allows for maximum conservation of healthy tissue, which is particularly valuable for maintaining the patient’s appearance and minimizing scarring. With every layer removed, patients often feel reassured, knowing that the surgery is thorough but conservative, removing only what is strictly necessary. The ability to evaluate each layer in real-time makes MMS uniquely effective, with an impressive cure rate for recurrent skin cancers and those in sensitive areas.
Final Layer Removed Until No More Tumor Cells
This layer-by-layer process continues until a tissue sample shows no evidence of remaining cancer cells under the microscope. At this point, the cancer is considered fully removed, and the surgeon can conclude the procedure. The precision of MMS means that patients leave knowing their skin cancer has been entirely treated, offering high confidence in the completeness of the surgery. This thorough approach reduces the likelihood of recurrence, providing patients with peace of mind and, in many cases, eliminating the need for further treatment.
About The Surgeon
Dr. Singh is board-certified in Mohs surgery and dermatologic surgery. She attended Harvard Medical School, completed her dermatology residency at Mayo Clinic, and completed her surgical fellowship in New York with Harvard-trained dermatologists, Drs. Marc and David Avram. She is quite experienced, has been practicing for over a decade, and has completed thousands of surgical cases.