Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for removing certain types of skin cancer because of its accuracy, high cure rates, and tissue-sparing approach. Unlike traditional excision methods, Mohs allows the surgeon to examine every layer of removed tissue in real time, ensuring no cancer cells are left behind while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Texas Surgical Dermatology, led by Dr. Tri H. Nguyen who is a Mohs fellowship-trained specialist, provides Mohs surgery to patients in Houston, Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, Texas, and surrounding locations.
Why Mohs Surgery Is Unique
Traditional skin cancer removal takes a larger margin of healthy tissue to reduce the chance of recurrence, but this can lead to more noticeable scarring—especially in delicate areas like the face. Mohs surgery removes tissue layer by layer, immediately checking each sample under a microscope until all cancer cells are gone. This ensures complete removal while protecting surrounding skin.
Who Should Consider Mohs Surgery
Mohs is often recommended if you have:
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Skin cancer on the face, ears, scalp, hands, feet, or genitals
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A recurrent tumor (previously treated but returned)
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Large or aggressive tumors
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Ill-defined borders that make it hard to tell where the cancer stops
Step-by-Step Mohs Surgery Process
1. Local Anesthesia
The area is numbed so you’ll remain awake but pain-free during the procedure.
2. First Tissue Removal
The surgeon removes a thin layer of visible tumor with a small margin of surrounding tissue.
3. Microscopic Examination
The tissue is mapped, frozen, and sliced for microscopic review to see exactly where cancer cells remain.
4. Additional Layer Removal
If cancer is found, another thin layer is removed only from that affected area. This process repeats until no cancer cells are detected.
5. Wound Closure
Depending on the wound size and location, it may be stitched, covered with a graft, or left to heal naturally.
Length of the Procedure
Mohs surgery can last several hours because each stage of removal and analysis takes time. Most patients require one to three stages.
Benefits of Mohs Surgery
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Highest cure rates—up to 99% for certain skin cancers
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Minimal removal of healthy tissue
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Lower risk of recurrence
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Immediate confirmation that the cancer is gone
Recovery and Aftercare
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Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common initially
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Stitches (if used) are typically removed within 1–2 weeks
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Scars fade over time with proper care and sun protection
Contact Us
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, Mohs surgery may be your best option for complete removal and minimal scarring. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn whether Mohs is right for you.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT OUR BOARD CERTIFIED IN DERMATOLOGISTS AT TEXAS SURGICAL DERMATOLOGY IN SPRING, TX
For more information on procedures and treatments offered at Texas Surgical Dermatology PA please call 832.663.6566 or click here to contact our dermatologists. Helping patients in Houston, The Woodlands, Spring, Katy and other surrounding areas of Texas.
