What Can I Expect During Mohs Surgery?
- Posted on: Sep 15 2024
Mohs surgery is a highly effective and precise treatment for skin cancer, designed to remove all cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Understanding what to expect can help ease any concerns and boost your confidence in the procedure.
The American Society for Mohs Surgery (ASMS), established by a group of dermatologists in Southern California in 1990, is dedicated to advancing this specialized technique. ASMS Fellow and Affiliate members are certified by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) or the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology (AOBD), ensuring expertise and quality care in every procedure.
Preparing for Your Surgery
Before your Mohs surgery, your doctor will review your medical history and perform a thorough examination of the treatment area.
Mohs surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Your doctor may give you specific pre-operative instructions, such as avoiding certain medications or fasting, so make sure to follow these guidelines carefully.
The Procedure Itself
The Mohs procedure starts with your surgeon applying a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout. The surgeon then removes the visible portion of the skin cancer along with a thin layer of surrounding skin.
The removed tissue is carefully divided into sections, and each section is color-coded to indicate its precise location on your skin.
Your surgeon will make corresponding reference marks on your skin and create a detailed map of the surgical site. The tissue is then processed to create microscope slides, which the surgeon examines under a microscope.
The surgeon thoroughly examines the undersides and edges of each section for any remaining cancer cells.
If the surgeon detects cancer cells, they mark the affected areas on the map and remove only the tissue containing cancer cells in the next stage. They repeat this process layer by layer until they find no further evidence of cancer.
What Happens After Mohs Surgery?
After removing all the cancerous tissue, your surgeon discusses the best way to repair the wound. This might involve simply letting the wound heal on its own, stitching it up, or using a skin graft.
You might experience some swelling or discomfort, but this is normal and typically resolves within a few days.
Schedule a Mohs Surgery Consultation in Peachtree Corners, GA
If you’re considering Mohs surgery and want the most effective treatment available, contact the American Society for Mohs Surgery at 714-379-6262 to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team in Peachtree Corners, GA, is here to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Posted in: MOHS Surgery
