If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, your doctor may recommend Mohs surgery as a treatment option. This specialized procedure has a high success rate in removing skin cancer while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. However, before undergoing Mohs surgery, it is important to have a consultation with your dermatologist or surgeon. This consultation is an opportunity for you to ask any questions or address any concerns you may have about the procedure. In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect during your Mohs treatment consultation and the important questions you should ask. 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.
What Exactly is Mohs Surgery and How Does it Work?
Mohs surgery is a specialized surgical technique that is used to treat skin cancer. It is named after Dr. Frederic Mohs, who developed the procedure in the 1930s. This surgical method is known for its high success rate in removing cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
So how does Mohs surgery work? Well, it is performed in stages. During the procedure, the surgeon removes a thin layer of skin containing the cancerous cells. This layer is then immediately examined under a microscope to determine if any cancer cells remain. If cancer cells are still present, another layer of skin is removed, and the process is repeated until no cancer cells are found. This meticulous approach ensures that all cancer cells are removed while minimizing the amount of healthy tissue that is taken out.
One of the reasons why Mohs surgery is highly effective is because of the precise microscopic examination of the removed tissue. This allows the surgeon to identify and remove even the tiniest cancerous cells that may not be visible to the naked eye. As a result, the procedure has a cure rate of up to 99% for certain types of skin cancer.
Overall, Mohs surgery offers an excellent treatment option for skin cancer patients. Its success lies in its ability to remove cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue. By undergoing this specialized procedure, patients can have peace of mind knowing that their skin cancer is being treated with the highest level of precision and effectiveness.
How Successful is Mohs Surgery in Treating Skin Cancer?
Mohs surgery has a remarkably high success rate in treating skin cancer. Numerous studies have shown that this specialized surgical technique has a cure rate of up to 99% for certain types of skin cancer. This exceptional success is due to the meticulous approach of removing cancerous cells layer by layer and examining them under a microscope. By doing so, the surgeon can ensure that no cancer cells remain while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
In addition to its high success rate, Mohs surgery also offers several other advantages. Firstly, it is a highly targeted treatment option, which means that only the cancerous cells are removed, leaving the surrounding healthy tissue intact. This is particularly important for cancers located on sensitive areas such as the face or genitals. Secondly, Mohs surgery allows for immediate microscopic examination of the removed tissue, ensuring that all cancer cells are eradicated during the same procedure.
It is important to note that the success of Mohs surgery depends on several factors, including the type and stage of skin cancer, as well as the expertise of the surgeon performing the procedure. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon who specializes in Mohs surgery for the best possible outcome.
Overall, Mohs surgery is an incredibly successful treatment option for skin cancer, offering high cure rates and minimal damage to healthy tissue. By undergoing this procedure, patients can have confidence in the effectiveness of their treatment and the preservation of their overall health and well-being.
How Should I Prepare for Mohs Surgery?
When preparing for Mohs surgery, there are several important steps you should take to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions: Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions to follow before the surgery. This may include avoiding certain medications, stopping the use of certain skincare products, or fasting before the procedure. It is crucial to carefully adhere to these instructions to minimize any potential risks or complications.
- Arrange for transportation: Mohs surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, which means you will be able to go home the same day. However, due to the nature of the procedure, you may require anesthesia or experience some discomfort. It is advisable to arrange for transportation to and from the surgical center to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
- Plan for aftercare: Mohs surgery involves removing layers of skin, which means you may have an open wound after the procedure. Your surgeon will provide instructions on how to care for the wound and any necessary dressings. It is essential to follow these instructions closely to promote proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.
- Bring a support person: Having a support person accompany you to the consultation and on the day of the surgery can provide emotional support and help you remember important information discussed during the consultation. They can also assist with transportation and aftercare.
- Prepare a list of questions: Use the consultation as an opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have about the procedure. Consider writing them down beforehand so that you don’t forget anything important. Your surgeon will be happy to answer your questions and provide any necessary clarification.
By following these steps and being proactive in your preparation, you can ensure a successful Mohs surgery experience. Remember, your dermatologist or surgeon is there to guide you through the process and provide you with the best care possible.
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.
