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MOHS Micrographic Surgery

MOHS Micrographic Surgery, currently referred to as Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery, is an advanced treatment procedure for the total removal of skin cancer. It offers the highest potential for a complete cure — up to 99 percent — even if other forms of treatment have failed. It is most often used in the treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma, the two most common types of skin cancer.

MOHS Micrographic Surgery differs from all other methods of treating skin cancer because it allows the surgeon to precisely identify and entirely remove a tumor through complete microscopic examination, leaving healthy tissue unharmed. It relies on the accuracy of a microscope to trace and ensure removal of skin cancer down to its roots.

The MOHS procedure requires a highly trained surgeon who is a specialist in both Dermatology and Pathology. Dr. Robert H. Zax is one of the few doctors in the Louisville area qualified to perform MOHS surgery as he is both a Board-Certified Dermatologist and a Board-Certified Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon.

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The advantages
of MOHS Surgery

01

High Cure Rate

Achieves up to a 99% success rate for primary basal cell and squamous cell cancers, outperforming traditional excisions.

02

Maximum Tissue Conservation

Removes cancerous tissue layer by layer while preserving as much healthy surrounding tissue as possible.

03

Minimal Scarring

Limits the overall size of the surgical wound to improve cosmetic outcomes, especially on the face.

04

Immediate Results

Utilizes an on-site lab so patients learn if all cancer is removed during the same visit.

05

Local Anesthesia

Performed safely as an outpatient procedure using only local numbing medication.

For more information about MOHS Micrographic Surgery, visit the American College of MOHS Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology web site: http://www.mohscollege.org/

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Any form of treatment will leave a scar; however, because MOHS surgery removes as little normal tissue as possible, scarring is minimized. Immediately after the cancer is removed, we may choose to:

  • Leave the wound to heal by itself
  • Repair the wound with stitches
  • Reconstruct the wound with a skin graft or flap
  • Arrange consultation with a reconstructive surgeon.

Most patients do not complain of pain. If there is any discomfort, a non-narcotic pain reliever is usually all that is necessary for relief. Avoid taking medications containing aspirin as they may cause bleeding. You may have some bruising around the wound especially if the surgery is close to the eye. Please notify the office if you are taking any type of blood thinner.

Most insurance policies cover the cost of MOHS surgery. The Skin Group is a participating provider with most insurance plans, including Medicare. It may be necessary to obtain a referral from your primary care physician.