What is a Mohs surgeon?
Mohs surgeons are the professional descendants of Dr. Frederic Mohs, who invented a surgical technique for treating certain skin cancers that bears his name and is practiced worldwide. When he originally introduced his procedure, it was not as refined as it is today. In the 1950s, the procedure involved removing a layer of cancerous skin, allowing it to heal for a few days, then the patient came back, and would have one more layer of skin removed for analysis, the affected area would be redressed with the zinc chloride paste, and if the test results showed any more cancer cells, the whole procedure would be repeated. In those days, the process could take days or weeks.
Modern advances in Mohs surgery
Today, Mohs surgery is more convenient, and has the highest cure rate for certain types of cancer. Rather than removing a layer of tissue, dressing the area with the zinc chloride paste, then asking the patient to come back for re-examination, a Mohs surgeon applies a local anesthesia on the affected area, then simply removes one thin layer of tissue at a time. Each layer is examined right away to see if the edges have cancer cells. This process would be repeated until there were no more cancer cells upon examination. The procedure helps to preserve as much healthy skin as possible. This is especially beneficial if the cancer is on a sensitive area such as the hands, feet, or face.
Preparing for surgery
Your Mohs surgeon will advise as to how to prepare for your surgery. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications, especially any blood-thinning medications. It is not really possible to predict how long Mohs surgery will take, but for most people, the procedure takes less than four hours. Wear comfortable clothing and dress in layers so you can adapt if the room is warm or cold. It is also advisable that you bring something to help pass the time.
Follow-up exams to look for skin cancer
Mohs surgery has a high rate of cure for skin cancer, but most patients will have a small risk of cancer recurrence or of developing another skin cancer. Plan to continue your care in the form of regular follow-up visits with your dermatologist or family doctor for cancer screening. Your dermatologist will most likely create a follow-up schedule for you. The regularity for skin exams largely depends upon your diagnosis. Typically, most patients have skin exams at least once or twice a year. However, your doctor may determine that it should be more often if your cancer was aggressive.
Mohs surgeon in south Charlotte
Residents in or near the South Charlotte NC area can experience full-service dermatology, including medical, surgical, cosmetic and Mohs micrographic surgery at Metrolina dermatology. Dr. Sasha Haberle and her staff offers customized care for the specific treatment of patients of all ages and skin conditions. Dr. Haberle is recognized as an expert in all areas of dermatology, including medical, cosmetic, and surgical care. She is a Board-Certified dermatologist and Fellowship trained Mohs surgeon. Call the friendly staff at Metrolina Dermatology today to schedule appointment. They welcome new patients and will help you develop a medical dermatology treatment plan for your skin conditions.
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