Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery, or Mohs Micrographic Surgery (MMS), is a highly effective technique for treating early-stage skin cancers. Developed by Frederic Mohs in the 1930s, this specialized approach involves removing cancerous tissue while preserving as much surrounding healthy skin as possible. At Bliss Dermatology, our skilled Mohs surgeon, Dr. Michelle Pennie, is fellowship-trained and board-certified in this method, ensuring the highest standard of care.

MMS is considered the gold standard for treating basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), boasting a remarkable 99% cure rate. The process begins with a precise excision of the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue. The removed tissue is then processed in our onsite Mohs lab, where trained histotechnologists prepare it for immediate examination by Dr. Pennie. If any cancer cells are detected at the margins, additional layers of skin are removed in stages until clear margins are achieved. For cases of melanoma and melanoma in situ, a form of Mohs Surgery known as Slow Mohs is often used as these cancer cells can be particularly difficult to see.

The Mohs procedure consists of six basic steps: mapping the tumor, excising the tissue, freezing it for examination, staining to identify cancerous cells, histological examination by the surgeon, and finally, reconstructing the site to minimize scarring. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to remain awake while ensuring comfort throughout the process. For more information on the Mohs procedure, we recommend exploring the American College of Mohs Surgery’s videos.

Surgical options for closing the wound after tumor removal include primary closure, flap repairs, which reposition nearby skin to cover the defect, and skin grafts, which involve transplanting skin from another area of the body. These techniques help achieve optimal cosmetic results and promote efficient healing.

Post-surgery, our team provides comprehensive care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for a week, refrain from alcohol for at least two days, and to abstain from smoking, as both can hinder healing and increase infection risk.

Monitoring your recovery is essential, and it’s important to contact Dr. Pennie if you experience excessive bleeding, signs of infection, or uncontrolled pain. With evidence-based post-operative instructions and ongoing support, we strive to make your healing process as seamless as possible.

Mohs surgery is an intricate yet highly successful method for treating skin cancer, combining meticulous surgical technique with advanced pathology to ensure complete cancer removal while preserving healthy tissue. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.