Understandably, you want your skin cancer gone in the safest, gentlest way possible, especially if the area is on your face. That’s where Mohs surgery comes in.
It’s a technique that targets the cancer but minimizes tissue removal to reduce scarring. If you’re wondering, “Is Mohs surgery painful, and what is it like,” here’s what you need to know.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Developed by the doctor it’s named for, this surgical technique is highly precise in only removing cancerous cells while leaving healthy skin untouched. Skin is analyzed during the procedure to ensure removal of the cancer. Mohs offers faster recovery times and leaves minimal scarring, so it’s a great option for sensitive areas.
What To Expect During Mohs Surgery
Because it’s less invasive, most of the time patients are awake during Mohs surgery. The area is numbed with a local anesthetic, so you won’t feel a thing. The surgery itself is pain-free.
Again, it’s very precise, removing only the cancerous tissue. The surgeon analyzes the tissue throughout the process one layer at a time and stops once all the cancer is removed and surrounding tissue is cancer free.
Because you won’t need a general anesthetic, the surgery is typically outpatient, and you’ll recover faster.
What To Expect During Recovery
After surgery, recovery time is generally minimal. Most patients experience no pain after surgery or very minor pain that is managed with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen.
Mohs Surgery Has a High Success Rate!
For many skin cancers, this procedure has an astonishing success rate of around 98%. Your doctor can help you determine if Mohs is right for you.
Find Out if Mohs Surgery Is Effective for Your Type of Cancer With Dr. Johnathan Chappell at Acworth
At Acworth Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, our caring doctor, Johnathan Langston Chappell, MD, has years of experience performing the Mohs surgery technique.
To find out if Mohs is the right procedure for your cancer, contact us for an appointment today at 678-505-8030.
