Developed in the 1930's by Dr. Frederic Mohs, Mohs surgery is a skin cancer removal technique that offers patients the most precise and efficient way to remove a variety of skin cancer types.

Further refined over the past several decades, the Mohs technique has become the most effective treatment for most skin cancers with cure rates up to 99%. These impressive cure rates are accomplished with a layer-by-layer removal process that utilizes microscopic examination of 100% of the surgical margins to ensure that the entire tumor is removed while sacrificing as little normal skin as possible.

On the day of surgery, the tissue is examined under the microscope after each stage of the procedure by the surgeon while you wait. Once the surgeon confirms with the microscope that all of the tumor cells are removed, different options for closing the wound are discussed.

Using this technique, the surgical removal, pathologic interpretation and reconstruction are all accomplished in one visit, making this technique both convenient and cost-effective. 

For more information about Mohs Micrographic Surgery and the importance of choosing a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, please visit the American College of Mohs Surgery

On the Day of Your Surgery

  • It is suggested to have someone accompany you. Depending on the location of your tumor, there may be a large bandage that may interfere with driving home. Also, post-operative wound care in many instances must be performed by someone other than the patient. It is best that this person directly receives the wound care instructions from the nurse or doctor immediately following surgery.
  • Shower the night before or the morning of your surgical appointment with antibacterial soap. Wash the site of your skin cancer.
  • Eat breakfast.
  • Take your daily medications as usual on the morning of your surgery. This includes blood pressure medications and prescription blood thinning medications. 
  • Plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time.
  • Bring with you:
    • Reading materials and snacks
    • Detailed list of all medications you are taking
    • Insurance card & photo ID
    • If you are on oxygen, please bring an extra tank

Frequently Asked Questions