What is Mohs Surgery and The Recovery Process?

If you suffer from skin cancer, then one of the most effective ways to cure it is with Mohs Surgery. This type of surgery has been used to treat skin cancer for several decades and is a relatively easy procedure to perform. Here’s everything you need to know about Mohs surgery in Southampton, PA.

What is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs Surgery is the name given to a procedure that was first discovered by Frederick Mohs. It can remove skin cancer from the body by carefully removing infected cells tissue layer by tissue layer. It’s a microscopic surgery in that as little skin and tissue is removed as possible. The goal is just to remove the layer of tissue that is cancerous, then a small section of the layer below that to ensure it didn’t spread deeper.

Mohs is best used for patients that are concerned about the rate of growth. If the skin cancer is advancing quickly, then Mohs Surgery is ideal. This is also the case if the skin cancer is located in an area where you need as much healthy tissue as possible.

If the skin cancer is oddly shaped or has uneven edges, then Mohs is also effective.

The surgery is performed by the doctor first cleaning the area. Then they’ll give you a numbing agent. Finally, the doctor will use a scalpel to carefully cut away the cancerous tissue. A sample will also be taken to determine if cancer has spread.

Once the surgery is over, there are a few ways that the recovery can go.

The Recovery Process

For small incisions, the surgeon may just let it heal on its own. For larger incisions, you may need stitches or a skin graft. In most cases, you can leave the office completely cancer-free. If the sample shows that cancer has spread, then you’ll need to come in for another surgery.

You’re usually able to go home soon after the surgery. You’ll need to be careful about bending or stretching. Otherwise, you may open the wound. You should avoid heavy labor for at least five to ten days.

Become Cancer-Free Today

If you suffer from skin cancer, then you need experienced dermatologists ready to help you battle it. We specialize in Mohs Surgery and can help make your experience as simple and easy as possible. Give us a call today to find out more.