What is Mohs Surgery?

Dec 12, 2014
When patients with skin cancer are seeking treatment for their condition, we often discuss Mohs surgery with them. Mohs surgery is a process through which skin layers are removed in the affected areas until the skin cancer is no longer present.

When patients with skin cancer are seeking treatment for their condition, we often discuss Mohs surgery with them. Mohs surgery is a process through which skin layers are removed in the affected areas until the skin cancer is no longer present. It is performed layer by layer in an effort to preserve healthy skin.

What is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is 99 percent effective in treating patients with skin cancer.

What is the process for Mohs surgery?

A patient undergoing Mohs surgery will be given local anesthesia. Patients report mild discomfort during the procedure.

After anesthesia is applied, the cancerous region is removed, layer by layer, by the doctor, without harming any of the nearby healthy skin. Each layer of skin removed takes about two minutes. After removal, the section of skin that was removed is analyzed by our team of professionals, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

How long does Mohs surgery take?

Most patients typically allot between three to four hours for the entire process, depending on the size of the cancerous region. Most of that time is spent awaiting skin evaluation in our waiting area.

What is the recovery time for Mohs surgery?

After Mohs surgery, sutures and bandages may remain over the area for a period of time determined by your Mohs surgeon. It is recommended to follow your board-certified dermatologic surgeon’s advice closely to prevent infection.

For More Information About Mohs Surgery or Skin Cancer, Contact Dr. Ragi in Teaneck.

Those looking to learn more about skin cancer may contact Dr. Ragi today at Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center. Our office is located in Teaneck, New Jersey, and we can be reached at 201.836.9696.