Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer Treatment in Miami and Hialeah
Mohs surgery is the most advanced and effective procedure available for treating certain types of skin cancer. Developed by Dr. Frederick Mohs, this highly precise technique carefully removes cancerous tissue layer by layer while preserving as much surrounding healthy skin as possible. This approach allows our dermatologists to target and remove only cancerous cells, making it ideal for sensitive areas like the face, around the eyes, nose, and other high-visibility areas.
If you’re in need of Mohs surgery for skin cancer, contact us today at 305) 751-7771 (Miami) or (305) 341-7551 (Hialeah) to schedule a consultation.
When is Mohs Surgery Appropriate?
Mohs surgery is primarily recommended for:
- Large or aggressive skin cancers
- Recurrent skin cancers
- Cancers in challenging or high-visibility areas where skin preservation is essential
Mohs is most commonly used for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma but may also be appropriate for certain melanomas.
Advantages of Mohs Surgery
- High Cure Rate: With a success rate of over 99%, Mohs surgery is one of the most effective treatments available for skin cancer.
- Precision: The layer-by-layer removal method allows us to conserve as much healthy tissue as possible.
- Minimal Scarring: Mohs surgery is tissue-sparing, meaning it helps minimize scarring by only removing necessary tissue.
- Immediate Results: Cancer cells are examined on-site during surgery, allowing the surgeon to ensure all cancer is removed before closing the wound.
Preparing for Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is an outpatient procedure, but there are a few things to prepare for:
- Avoid Smoking: Refrain from smoking for at least two weeks before and after surgery to aid healing.
- Stop Blood Thinners: Avoid over-the-counter blood-thinning medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements (Vitamin E, fish oil) for two weeks before surgery.
- Bring Comfort Items: Since Mohs surgery involves multiple layers and immediate microscopic examination, it’s helpful to bring snacks, water, and a book or device, as the procedure may take a few hours.
What to Expect During Mohs Surgery
The procedure begins with local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. Our Mohs surgeon will then remove thin layers of tissue and examine each layer under a microscope to ensure no cancer remains. This process continues until the tissue is free of cancer cells. Most patients feel little discomfort during the procedure, and Mohs surgery is completed within a single visit, often in four hours or less.
Recovery After Mohs Surgery
After surgery, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, and some discomfort. You can manage these symptoms with acetaminophen and cold compresses. Stitches are usually removed after 5 to 10 days, depending on the location and extent of the surgery. Proper wound care, such as cleaning with gentle soap, applying petroleum jelly, and redressing, is essential for healing and minimizing scarring.
Will Mohs Surgery Leave a Scar?
While any skin surgery can result in a scar, Mohs surgery aims to keep scarring minimal by preserving healthy tissue. Scars generally improve significantly within the first month of healing, with additional improvement over several months. If desired, our dermatologists offer treatments to further reduce scarring as the area heals.
Schedule Your Mohs Surgery Consultation
For expert Mohs surgery and comprehensive skin cancer care, reach out to our Miami or Hialeah dermatology clinics. Contact us at (305) 751-7771 (Miami) or (305) 341-7551 (Hialeah) to schedule your consultation and receive the highest level of care for your skin health.
