Mohs micrographic surgery is a meticulous, layer-by-layer method for removing skin cancer. Each stage, or layer, is examined under a microscope in real-time until no cancer cells remain, ensuring complete removal with minimal damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. Mohs surgery is widely recognized as the gold standard treatment for many types of non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly those in sensitive or cosmetically significant areas like the face, head, neck, hands, or feet. Mohs surgery is safely performed in an office setting with only a local anesthetic.
When it comes to treating skin cancer, precision matters. Mohs surgery is a highly specialized, technique-driven procedure that offers the highest cure rate for many types of skin cancer. In addition, it preserves as much healthy tissue as possible, helping limit scarring.
Mohs surgery and radiation are very different ways to treat skin cancer. Where radiation destroys cancer cells, it is also less precise and destroys all cells in the treatment area. The cure rate of superficial radiation therapy does not match that of Mohs surgery, despite the skewed data presented on television and social media ads. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology issued a position statement against the use of superficial radiation therapy several years ago. Radiation as primary therapy may be considered for those patients who cannot undergo surgery or refuse surgery and are over 60 years old. Radiation as primary therapy may be considered for those patients under 60 years of age who cannot undergo surgery or refuse surgery.
Thanks to its precision and tissue-sparing nature, Mohs surgery offers a cure rate of up to 99% for most skin cancers, making it an invaluable tool in dermatologic care. Mohs surgery is most often recommended for:
Yes, Mohs surgery could leave a scar, just like most surgeries. How noticeable the scar is will depend on where it is located and the skill of the dermatologist performing the surgery. A great Mohs surgeon doesn't just treat skin cancer, but also understands how skin heals in certain areas. More importantly, they know how to minimize scarring by hiding suture lines in cosmetic boundaries and relaxing skin tension lines.
Not all dermatologists are trained in Mohs surgery – and even fewer have completed a fellowship specifically in Mohs surgery. Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons undergo extensive hands-on training in skin cancer pathology, surgical techniques, and advanced reconstruction, including plastic surgery wound closure techniques. If you are planning to have Mohs surgery, be sure to seek a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon for optimal outcome.
Choosing a board-certified and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon ensures you will receive the highest standard of care, especially when the treatment involves delicate areas or complex cases.
Florida Dermatology Specialists is one of the best practices in South Florida. They proudly offer Mohs surgery performed only by fellowship-trained and board-certified Mohs surgeons at three locations in Palm Beach County, Martin County, and St. Lucie County.
To schedule an appointment to discuss skin concerns, book a consultation for Mohs surgery, or schedule an annual skin check, please select the Florida Dermatology Specialists practice location most convenient to you or click here.
Reviewed by:
Richard Krathen, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a board-certified Dermatologist, Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon, and fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon. He has performed more than 15,000 Mohs procedures, making him one of the leaders in his field. Dr. Krathen is also the founder of Florida Dermatology Specialists, bringing expertise in dermatologic and skin cancer care to the communities he serves.
