Preparing For Mohs Surgery

Woman having a lesion removed from skin with Mohs Surgery.

Medically Reviewed by Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD

 

 

Mohs surgery is a specialized skin cancer treatment designed to remove cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. For certain areas of the body it is considered the gold standard for treating basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the two most common types of skin cancer. Unlike traditional excision methods, Mohs surgery is performed in stages, where the surgeon removes thin layers of tissue one at a time and examines them under a microscope until no cancerous cells remain. This precise approach ensures maximum effectiveness with minimal scarring, making it ideal for areas like the face, ears, and hands, where preserving healthy tissue is critical.

For our patients diagnosed with BCC or SCC, we work with some of the best Mohs surgeons in New York City to ensure they receive expert care. While the procedure itself is highly effective, proper preparation is key to a smooth experience and recovery. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for Mohs surgery and ensure the best possible outcome.

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What Exactly is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is a precise, tissue-sparing procedure designed to remove skin cancer while preserving as much healthy surrounding tissue as possible. It is most commonly used to treat basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) but may also be used for certain types of melanoma and other rare skin cancers in specific cases.

How Mohs Surgery Works

Mohs surgery is performed in stages to ensure the complete removal of cancerous cells while minimizing unnecessary removal of healthy skin. The procedure follows these steps:

  1. Local Anesthesia – The treatment area is numbed to ensure comfort during the procedure.
  2. Tissue Removal – The Mohs surgeon removes a thin layer of skin from the affected area.
  3. Microscopic Examination – The removed tissue is processed and examined under a microscope to check for remaining cancer cells.
  4. Additional Layers Removed if Needed – If cancer cells are still present at the margins, another thin layer is removed, and the process is repeated until no cancerous cells remain.
  5. Wound Repair – Once all cancer is removed, the wound may be left to heal naturally, sutured closed, or reconstructed using a skin graft or flap, depending on its size and location.

Why Mohs Surgery is Considered the Gold Standard

  • Highest Cure Rate – Mohs surgery has a 99% cure rate for primary BCC and SCC, making it the most effective treatment for these cancers.
  • Tissue Preservation – Because only affected layers are removed, it spares as much healthy skin as possible, reducing scarring and improving cosmetic outcomes.
  • Ideal for Sensitive Areas – Mohs is particularly beneficial for skin cancers on the face, nose, eyelids, ears, lips, hands, and other cosmetically and functionally important areas.

While Mohs surgery is highly effective, proper preparation and aftercare are essential for the best results.

 

Patient getting Mohs Surgery on right eyebrow.

How You Should Prepare For Your Mohs Surgery

For our patients diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), we ensure they receive the highest level of care by referring them to the best Mohs surgeons in New York City. These specialists have extensive experience performing precise, tissue-sparing procedures that deliver the best medical and cosmetic outcomes.

The most important step in preparing for Mohs surgery is to have a thorough consultation with your surgeon and carefully follow their pre-operative instructions. While every patient’s situation is unique, here are some general preparation guidelines:

  • Discuss Medications – Your Mohs surgeon may advise you on whether to continue or temporarily stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, before surgery.
  • Plan for the Procedure – Although Mohs surgery is performed under local anesthesia and does not require general sedation, the procedure can take several hours, depending on the number of tissue layers that need to be removed. Make sure to clear your schedule for the day.
  • Follow Pre-Op Skin Care Instructions – Your surgeon may recommend avoiding certain topical treatments or skincare products leading up to the procedure.
  • Arrange for Transportation if Needed – While you will be awake during the procedure, some patients prefer to have a friend or family member accompany them for support.
  • Dress Comfortably – Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and avoid wearing makeup, skincare products, or jewelry around the treatment area.

By choosing an experienced Mohs surgeon and carefully following pre- and post-operative care instructions, patients can ensure the best possible outcome with minimal discomfort and optimal healing. We are committed to guiding our patients through every step of the process, from diagnosis to treatment and aftercare, so they can feel confident in their skin cancer treatment and recovery.

 

By | Categories: Surgical Dermatology

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