If you’ve been told you need Mohs surgery, it’s normal to have questions, concerns, and even a little anxiety. The good news is that this procedure is effective and extremely precise.
Having an open conversation with your Mohs surgeon in Alpharetta, Georgia before treatment can help you feel confident and prepared every step of the way.
Here are questions you’ll want to ask.
What is Mohs Surgery?
A Mohs procedure is a specialized skin cancer removal technique. Your doctor removes the cancer layer by layer while also preserving as much healthy tissue and skin as possible.
It’s often used to treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, especially in high-risk areas like the face, ears, nose, neck, hands, and scalp.
What’s unique about this procedure is that each layer is immediately examined to check if cancer cells are still present. If so, another layer is removed until no more cancer cells are detected.
Mohs surgery has a high cure rate and is extremely precise.
Questions to Ask Your Mohs Surgeon in Alpharetta, Georgia
Walking into your appointment prepared with questions can make the experience far less overwhelming. Here are some important things to ask.
What Type of Skin Cancer Do I Have?
Start with the basics. Ask your surgeon to thoroughly explain your diagnosis. Knowing the type of skin cancer you have can help you understand why Mohs procedure is recommended and what to expect long-term.
Why is This Option the Best Option?
Mohs isn’t necessary for every type of skin cancer. Ask your surgeon why this approach is the right choice for your unique case. Factors like location, size, and recurrence risk all play a role in determining your treatment plan.
This conversation can help you feel reassured that you’re choosing the most appropriate option.
What is Surgery Like?
Surgery is performed in an outpatient setting using local anesthesia. The process can take several hours, so be sure to bring things with you that will keep you comfortable and occupied while waiting.
Most of the time is spent waiting between stages, which is when each layer is microscopically analyzed to determine if cancer cells are present.
Ask how many stages of surgery you may need. Most procedures involve one to three stages, though this depends on the size of the tumor, location, and the type.
Knowing ahead of time can help you best plan your day.
Do I Need Reconstruction?
After the cancer is removed, the next step is healing. Sometimes the area will heal on its own. In other instances, stitches or even a graft may be used.
If you need reconstruction, ask who will perform it, how it will be done, and what the expected cosmetic outcome is. You’ll also want to ask about a scar management plan to optimize healing.
What Kind of Scar Should I Expect?
This is one of the biggest concerns for most patients. While Mohs surgery aims to minimize scarring, any surgical procedure will leave a mark.
Ask your doctor where the incision will be located, how noticeable it may be, and what you can do during recovery to promote the best possible healing.
What’s Recovery Like?
Recovery depends on the size and location of the treatment area. Ask about downtime, how long healing usually takes, and any restrictions you’ll need to follow.
This way you can plan accordingly and prepare ahead of time for any aftercare needs you’ll have.
What Are My Chances of Recurrence?
Mohs has one of the highest cure rates, but no treatment is 100%. Ask about your specific chances of recurrence and how often you should schedule skin assessments to ensure you’re in the clear.
This is also a great time to ask about lifestyle changes, sun protection, and other prevention tips to lower your risk of recurrence.
Our Mohs Surgeon Near Alpharetta Offers Effective Skin Cancer Treatment for All Skin Types
Asking the right questions before treatment empowers you to feel informed and confident about your care plan.
For treatment from the top Mohs surgeon in Alpharetta, Georgia, come to Acworth Dermatology. Dr. Johnathan Chappell is ready to get you on the path to health and healing.
Contact us online or give our office a call at 678-505-8030 today to schedule a consultation.