Mohs surgery and excision of skin lesions are both skin cancer surgical procedures. The choice between these procedures depends on various factors, including the type, size, location, and aggressiveness of the skin cancer. It’s important to consult with a surgical dermatologist, who can evaluate your specific case and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Excision
Excision of skin lesions involves removing the entire tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue. Skin cancers with well-defined borders, smaller lesions, or those located in areas where tissue preservation is not as critical are typical for use of excision. The surgical dermatologist removes the tumor and closes the wound with sutures or another closure technique. It is a more straightforward procedure than Mohs surgery. Excision takes less time than Mohs surgery and completed in an office setting.
Mohs Surgery
Another specialized technique for skin cancer treatment is Mohs surgery (Mohs micrographic surgery). Treating all skin cancers with Mohs surgery is not necessary. It is typically used with aggressive growth patterns or in cosmetically sensitive areas. It is recommended when the skin cancer is located in areas where preserving healthy tissue is crucial. These areas include the face, hands, feet, genitals, or areas with limited available tissue. It is especially useful for skin cancers with ill-defined borders, aggressive growth patterns, or those that have recurred after previous treatment. Mohs surgery involves removing thin layers of cancerous tissue one at a time and examining it under a microscope. This is repeated until cancer cells are no longer detected. This process allows for the precise removal of cancerous tissue while minimizing the loss of healthy tissue. However, it can be a lengthy procedure. Some cases may need additional reconstruction surgery.
View additional information on Mohs Surgery on the Mayo Clinic website.
Ultimately, you need a specialist’s evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment option between excision of skin lesions or Mohs surgery.
Dr. Novikov Wellness and Skin Care uses the Medicare Mohs surgery appropriate use criteria. The criteria is an objective, evidence based tool to determine the best treatment for your condition and accepted by all dermatologic professionals. Dr. Novikov will assess the area of concern and discuss the best treatment option for you.