What to Expect From Mohs Surgery: Your Quick Guide to Skin Cancer Treatment

Getting diagnosed with skin cancer is a scary, heart-wrenching experience. When you’re faced with this type of diagnosis, it’s natural to have many questions.

We’re going to share a quick guide on what to expect from Mohs surgery, so that you can start getting some answers.

A Multi-Step Process Towards Effective Results 

Mohs surgery uses a multi-step process to remove the two most common forms of skin cancer: basal cell carcinomas (BCC) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC).

By removing cancerous cells layer by layer, the process allows exceptional results while minimizing trauma to the treatment area. The cure rate is incredibly high – 99% for skin cancer that hasn’t been previously treated and 94% for recurring skin cancer.

What to Expect From Mohs Surgery

After being prepped, the doctor will inject a bit of local anesthesia into the treatment area, so that you won’t feel any pain. They’ll begin by removing the top layer of the cancerous tissue and prepare it for examination in the lab. 

This tissue will become a map of where cancerous cells are located and then split into sections. While the cross-sections are being analyzed, which is a pretty lengthy and precise process, you’ll be able to relax, read a book, even eat if you’re hungry.

If necessary, the doctor will remove the second layer of cancerous cells, and then head back to the lab. This process continues until all of the cancerous cells have been removed.

The Best Resource for More Information

The best way to get more information on what to expect from Mohs surgery is to speak with a qualified dermatologist.

If you’re in the Acworth area, give us a call at 678-505-8030 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Johnathan Langston Chappell, a specialist in Mohs surgery.

Trust your diagnosis to the compassionate hands of skilled Mohs surgeon, Dr. Chappell.