Mohs surgery, sometimes called Mohs micrographic surgery, has a 99% success rate for treating high-risk skin cancer. Developed in the 1930s and now refined as a highly successful skin cancer treatment option, Mohs surgery is usually performed in one day and is a precise, outpatient procedure. Common types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, can be treated with Mohs surgery.
To understand what makes this treatment option so effective for patients with basal cell carcinoma, we’ve listed everything you need to know about this procedure below.
What is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)?
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) occurs in the outer layer of the skin called the epidermis. Changes in the DNA of the basal cells cause the production of skin cells to become abnormal. This results in the appearance of lesions on the skin.
It usually affects the parts of the body that are exposed to the sun for long periods, such as the face, head, and neck. Other risk factors for BCC include radiation therapy, family history, immune-suppressing drugs, and other lifestyle factors. It is the most common type of skin cancer reported annually in the United States.
There are four different types of BCC based on the type of lesion present on the skin:
- Nodular – the skin lesion looks like a pimple with visible blood vessels in the surrounding area.
- Superficial spreading – lesions are shallow marks on the skin that are lighter in color and present on the trunk, arms, and legs.
- Sclerosing – lesions look like scars that expand over time and are commonly found on the face.
- Pigmented – causes hyperpigmentation where the affected area is visibly darker than the surrounding skin.
Mohs Surgery as Treatment for Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Mohs surgery is a type of skin cancer treatment that is particularly effective for cases where there is a high likelihood of recurring cancer or when the skin cancer is affecting areas where preserving healthy tissue is critical. Skin cancers where the edges are difficult to define and are large and progress quickly can also benefit from Mohs surgery.
During the procedure, the surgeon precisely cuts the thin layers of the skin affected by cancer without harming the surrounding healthy area. The sides and edges of the affected area are examined under the microscope and may be removed until all traces of cancer are gone. The procedure ends once they can determine the skin is cancer-free. Your surgeon will then choose from various approaches to manage the wound, such as closing it with sutures or second-intention healing.
Some of the common risks of the procedure include scar formation, bleeding, infection, and tenderness in the surgical area. However, these risks are very low. Your healthcare provider will discuss this at length if you are a candidate for this procedure.
One of the advantages of the procedure is the complete microscopic examination it offers, which ensures the complete removal of cancer. Other benefits of the treatment include that local anesthesia is used to numb the area, which makes it a comfortable experience. It is also an outpatient procedure and only needs to be performed once.
Preparation for Mohs Surgery
A consultation with your provider is necessary to determine whether Mohs surgery can be a good treatment option for your BCC.
A dermatologist will perform a physical exam of the site and surrounding areas. Depending on the biopsy and your medical history, your provider will recommend you for this procedure and provide pre-surgery instructions.
The entire procedure can take several hours to a day. During the procedure, your surgeon will inject an anesthetic into your skin and perform a layer-by-layer removal of skin affected by cancer. Additional anesthetic injections may be necessary to fully numb the operative area.
Recovery and Post-Surgery Care
Post-surgery reminders include pain management medication and wound care instructions. Complete recovery can take up to 18 months. You will need to be careful as your scars mature and then fade. Some patients opt for scar revision based on their surgeon’s recommendations.
Avoid strenuous activity as you recuperate. Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and bruising, however, do not put them directly on your skin.
You must keep up with your follow-up appointments during your recovery. These visits help keep track of your progress. You can raise any concerns with your provider. These include potential complications like fever and other signs of infection.
Mohs Surgery for Basal Cell Carcinoma in Coral Gables, FL
Early detection and treatment of BCC are vital in determining whether your skin cancer is treatable with Mohs surgery. If you have any suspicious or new skin growths, check with your doctor to find the root cause of these changes.
Basal cell carcinoma can affect anyone at any age. The Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center provides a variety of dermatologic services, such as skin cancer screenings, prevention, and treatments.
Our clinic specializes in providing Mohs micrographic surgery for treating high-risk skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma. Under the expertise of Dr. T.J. Giuffrida, MD, we provide comprehensive, high-quality skin cancer treatments and recovery plans for patients in the Miami area.
If you or a loved one have skin concerns, call our office today at (305) 461-2000 to schedule an appointment. You can also use our secure online appointment request form for your convenience.
We look forward to hearing from you!
