What Is Mohs Surgery? A Patient’s Guide to This Precise Skin Cancer Treatment

Skin cancer is a common condition, but early and accurate treatment can lead to strong outcomes. Mohs surgery is a precise method used to remove certain types of skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. At Advanced Dermatology and Mohs Surgery in Batavia, IL, Dr. Sharon Horton provides Mohs surgery for patients seeking careful, tissue-sparing treatment. Patients from Batavia, serving Wheaton, Naperville, and St. Charles, IL, rely on our practice for attentive care and clear guidance throughout treatment.

What Mohs Surgery Involves

Mohs surgery is a specialized procedure that removes cancerous tissue in stages. During the procedure, thin layers of tissue are removed and examined under a microscope. Each layer is checked immediately to see if cancer cells are still present. This process continues until no cancer cells remain.

By examining the tissue during the procedure, Mohs surgery helps ensure that all cancer is removed while minimizing the removal of surrounding healthy skin. This approach is especially helpful in areas where preserving tissue is important.

Why Mohs Surgery Is Used

Mohs surgery is commonly recommended for certain types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It is often used when cancers are located in visible or sensitive areas such as the face, ears, scalp, hands, or feet. It may also be recommended for cancers that have returned or have unclear borders.

This method provides a high level of accuracy. By checking each layer as it is removed, the risk of leaving behind cancer cells is reduced while helping maintain the appearance and function of the treated area.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Mohs surgery is performed in the office using local anesthesia. The area is numbed so patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure. After each layer of tissue is removed, it is examined while the patient waits. If cancer cells are still present, additional layers are removed and evaluated.

The process can take several hours depending on the size and depth of the cancer. Patients are able to go home the same day once the procedure is complete.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

After Mohs surgery, the treated area is managed to support proper healing. Some wounds may heal on their own, while others may require stitches or additional repair. Patients receive instructions on how to care for the site and reduce the risk of infection.

Follow-up visits help monitor healing and check for any signs of recurrence. Regular skin evaluations can also help detect new concerns early.

Mohs Surgery in Batavia, IL

Advanced Dermatology and Mohs Surgery provides comprehensive care for patients undergoing Mohs surgery in Batavia, IL, serving Wheaton, Naperville, and St. Charles, IL. Dr. Sharon Horton focuses on precise treatment, patient comfort, and long-term skin health. To schedule an appointment, call 630-482-3700.