What Is A MOHS Surgeon?

A physician specializing in the removal of cancerous skin lesions, the goal of a MOHS surgeon is to effectively remove as much cancerous tissue as possible using a micrographic surgical technique, otherwise known as MOHS surgery. In essence, this type of surgery is designated for the removal of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), though it can be used to treat other cancers in some cases.

WebMD explains that MOHS surgery is usually recommended in the following scenarios:

• When a skin cancer is likely to come back or has already returned since a previous treatment
• When a skin cancer is located in a part of the body where it is important to have healthy tissue
• When a skin cancer is large or grows quickly
• When a skin cancer develops uneven edges

As such, the process of MOHS surgery is unique in that as each layer of skin is removed, it is immediately assessed under a microscope. Therefore, as long as cancer is present in the tissue, the surgery continues, and additional layers and tissues are removed. While most surgeries are less than 4 hours and are performed on an outpatient basis, patients are advised to set aside a whole day.

Wound healing is particularly important following a MOHS surgery, and specific instructions are given to patients, depending on the area of treatment. Though some wounds are stitched closed, other incisions might be allowed to heal themselves. Furthermore, a small graft of skin might be taken from another area of the body to serve as a cover for the wound. Finally, if reconstructive surgery is a possibility in the future, a MOHS surgeon will temporarily close the wound to allow for complete healing.

To date, MOHS surgery has produced the highest cure rates for BCC and SCC (99% for new skin cancers and 95% for returning skin cancers!), making it a highly valued and promising surgical technique.

Dr. Kayal – Certified Surgeon And Specialist In MOHS Surgery

Given the advancements of MOHS surgery, it greatly increases a patient’s recovery, allowing a surgeon to remove tumors at the root, while preserving healthy skin tissues. Dr. Kayal of Kayal Dermatology in Marietta is a certified surgeon and specialist in MOHS surgery, meaning that he has received college certification and training in MOHS surgery. For individuals consumed with stress and anxiety regarding their skin cancer, rest assured that Dr. Kayal will bring peace of mind with superior surgical skill and utmost precision in MOHS surgery.

To schedule a consultation to discuss your options for MOHS surgery, contact Kayal Dermatology today.