When it comes to treating skin cancer with precision and effectiveness, our team at Phoenixville Valley Forge Dermatology Associates specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery—a highly advanced technique that offers the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. If you’ve been diagnosed with certain types of skin cancer, understanding this procedure can help you feel confident about your treatment journey.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery (pronounced “Moes”) is a specialized skin cancer removal procedure performed by fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeons. Unlike traditional excision methods, Mohs surgery allows for immediate, comprehensive examination of tissue margins during your appointment, ensuring complete removal of cancerous cells while you’re still in our office.
Understanding the Mohs Procedure
The Mohs technique involves a systematic, layer-by-layer approach. First, the visible tumor is carefully removed along with a thin margin of surrounding tissue. This tissue is immediately processed and examined under a microscope to map any remaining cancer cells. If cancer is detected at the edges, another precise layer is removed from only that specific area—not the entire wound. This process continues until all margins are clear, typically resulting in the smallest possible wound and best cosmetic outcome.
What Types of Skin Cancer Are Treated with Mohs?
Mohs surgery is most commonly used for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, especially when they appear on cosmetically sensitive areas like the face, ears, nose, eyelids, or hands. It’s also ideal for recurrent cancers, large or aggressive tumors, and cancers with poorly defined borders.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Each stage of tissue removal and examination takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Most patients require only one or two stages, though some cases may require more. Plan to spend several hours at our office, and feel free to bring reading material, a snack, or something to keep you comfortable during waiting periods. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you’ll remain awake and comfortable throughout.
Why Choose Phoenixville Valley Forge Dermatology Associates for Mohs Surgery?
Our team brings specialized expertise and a patient-centered approach to every Mohs surgery procedure. We understand that facing a skin cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, which is why we’re committed to providing not just exceptional surgical outcomes, but also compassionate care throughout your treatment. With same-day tissue analysis and results, you’ll leave our office knowing your cancer has been completely removed, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to move forward with reconstruction or healing.
Schedule Your Mohs Surgery Consultation Today
If you’ve been referred for Mohs surgery or would like to learn more about whether this treatment is right for you, contact Phoenixville Valley Forge Dermatology Associates at 610-983-3980. Our experienced team is here to answer your questions and provide the highest standard of dermatologic surgical care in Phoenixville and the surrounding Valley Forge area.
