Mohs micrographic surgery, or simply Mohs surgery, is a highly specialized technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer. During this precise procedure, our highly experienced Mohs surgeon, Dr. Rahil Dharia, removes cancerous tissue in thin layers, examining each one under a microscope before removing another. This process allows Dr. Dharia to remove the least amount of tissue possible, while simultaneously ensuring that all cancerous cells are removed.
Mohs surgery, however, is not always necessary. Here, Dr. Dharia shares more information about what Mohs treats and who can be a good candidate for this procedure.
What Types of Cancers Does Mohs Treat?
Mohs surgery is most often used to treat basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the two most common types of skin cancer. In most cases, Mohs is not used as a first line of treatment for melanoma, as this type of skin cancer tends to spread into deeper tissues more rapidly, making larger excisions more effective. However, there may be some special cases when Mohs surgery is used to treat very early-stage melanoma.
Most commonly, Dr. Dharia may recommend Mohs surgery for BCCs or SCCS that:
- Affect cosmetically-sensitive areas. Mohs is ideal for cancers on the face, neck, hands or other visible areas where minimizing scarring is a priority.
- Have returned. Recurrent skin cancers or those with a high risk of returning are often treated with Mohs to ensure thorough removal.
- Are large or fast-growing. High-risk BCCs or SCCs with irregular borders or rapid growth may require the precision and accuracy Mohs offers.
When Is Mohs Not Recommended?
Dr. Dharia does not recommend Mohs surgery for every skin cancer patient. Small, low-risk basal cell carcinomas or squamous cell carcinomas located in more inconspicuous areas can often be treated with less invasive options. On the other hand, more aggressive skin cancers, particularly melanomas, that have spread to other areas of the body may require more extensive treatment, such as surgery combined with radiation therapy.
Other Skin Cancer Treatment Options
If Mohs surgery is not recommended for your specific case, there are a number of other effective treatment options that may be used instead.
- Excision. This process involves surgically removing the cancerous lesion, along with a small amount of healthy surrounding tissue to ensure complete removal.
- Topical medications. In some cases, topical medications like imiquimod or fluorouracil may be used to treat superficial skin cancers or precancerous lesions like actinic keratoses.
- Radiation therapy. Radiation may be recommended for more aggressive skin cancers at a high risk for spreading to other areas of the body.
- Immunotherapy. Advanced cases of skin cancer, including melanomas, may require more extensive treatments like immunotherapy to help the immune system fight cancer cells.
Finding the the Best Skin Cancer Treatment for You
The best skin cancer treatment plan for you will depend on the size, type and location of the cancerous lesion. Dr Dharia will perform a careful assessment, which may include a skin biopsy, to determine the best and most effective course of action for your particular case, while working to minimize any scarring or other side effects.
If you are concerned about a suspicious-looking spot on your skin, don’t hesitate to call us at 805-484-2855 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today.
Author: Dr. Daniel G. Kolder
Dr. Daniel G. Kolder is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. As a highly trained plastic surgeon serving Ventura County, he is best-known for his warm, easy manner, compassionate care, and beautiful, natural results.
