Mohs Surgery Patient Information - what you need to know

What is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery, also known as Mohs micrographic surgery, is a precise surgical technique used to remove skin cancer. The procedure involves removing thin layers of skin tissue and examining them under a microscope to ensure that all cancerous cells have been removed. The process is repeated layer by layer until no more cancerous cells are detected. Mohs surgery is typically used to remove skin cancers that have a high risk of recurrence or those located in areas where preservation of healthy skin is crucial, such as the face or hands. This surgical technique is known for its high cure rates, preservation of healthy tissue and cosmetic outcomes, making it a popular choice for treating skin cancer.

Why should I have Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is recommended for patients with basal cell cancers or squamous cell cancers that are aggressive or in a cosmetically sensitive area. This technique is particularly useful for skin cancers that are difficult to remove completely with other surgical methods or that have previously recurred after treatment. By examining the tissue on the day of the surgery, we know the result immediately, and can ensure all the cancerous tissue has been removed. Mohs surgery has a high cure rate and is very effective at removing skin cancer while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. It also has a lower risk of recurrence compared to other treatment methods. 

Who can perform Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is a specialised surgical technique that requires highly specialised training and can only be performed by a Mohs Surgery Specialists. Specifically, a Mohs Surgery Specialist is a dermatologist who has completed additional years of training in Mohs surgery and the most advanced skin surgery techniques. Mohs Surgery Specialists are experts in the removal of skin cancer and the preservation of healthy tissue, and are trained to have the highest level of precision during the procedure. Furthermore, since all Mohs Surgery Specialists are also fully trained Dermatologists, it means that they are best placed to discuss the full range of treatment options, including determining when surgery is not in fact the best option. 

What happens during Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery is performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon removes a thin layer of skin containing the cancerous cells and examines it under a microscope. If cancer cells are still present, another thin layer of skin is removed and examined. This process is repeated until no cancer cells are detected in the tissue. This process can take 2-8 hours. Once the cancer is completely removed, the wound is closed with stitches. Very rarely, the skin cancer is not able to be completely removed with Mohs surgery, should this happen, your surgeon will discuss the alternative treatment options with you.

What are the risks of Mohs surgery?

Like all surgeries, Mohs surgery carries some risks. These may include bleeding, infection, scarring, and nerve damage. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

What is the recovery process like after Mohs surgery?

Recovery from Mohs surgery is typically quick and you can usually return to work after 1 week. You may experience some discomfort, bruising and swelling in the area for a few days after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. You will need to keep the area clean and dry and avoid strenuous activity until the wound has healed.

What is the follow-up care like after Mohs surgery?

Your Mohs surgery specialist will schedule follow-up appointments to remove sutures, monitor your recovery and check for any signs of cancer recurrence. It is important to attend these appointments and report any unusual symptoms or changes in the area.

If you have any questions or concerns about Mohs micrographic surgery, please don't hesitate to ask your surgeon. They are there to help you understand the procedure and make informed decisions about your care.