The thought of having skin cancer can be daunting. However, the Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax board-certified dermatologists can put your mind at ease. They specialize in Mohs surgery, which is the gold standard in treating most skin cancers. The procedure removes cancerous skin cells in fine layers, which preserves tissue while offering a cure. To book an appointment at the Fairfax, Virginia, office, call today or book online any time, day or night.
Mohs surgery, named after its inventor, Dr. Frederic Mohs, is a specialized and precise surgical technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer. This procedure is highly effective in removing cancerous tissue while minimizing damage to healthy surrounding skin.
Mohs surgery is typically recommended for treating skin cancers, particularly those with a high risk of recurrence or those located in aesthetically sensitive areas, such as the face.
Commonly addressed skin cancers using Mohs surgery include basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. This procedure is particularly beneficial when the tumor has irregular borders, is large, or has recurred after previous treatments.
During a Mohs surgery procedure, your Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax surgeon removes and examines thin layers of tissue one layer at a time until they have eradicated all cancerous cells. The dermatology team immediately examines the tissues under a microscope, and if cancer cells are still present, your surgeon excises another layer.
The meticulous examination of each layer enables your surgeon to precisely target and remove cancer cells while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible.
The benefits of Mohs surgery are significant, making it a preferred choice for certain skin cancer cases.
First, the procedure offers the highest cure rate among various skin cancer treatments. By examining each layer in real-time, your surgeon ensures complete removal of cancer cells, reducing the likelihood of cancer recurrence.
Mohs surgery also preserves as much healthy tissue as possible, which is important for cosmetically sensitive areas like the face.
The technique also allows for immediate reconstruction of the surgical site once the cancer has been fully removed, which enhances the cosmetic outcome, minimizing scarring and promoting faster healing.
Mohs surgery is especially beneficial for cases where the tumor has indistinct borders or involves complex anatomical structures.
If you have concerns about skin cancer, contact the team of specialists at Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax for a comprehensive exam and more information about Mohs surgery and how it can provide superior results. Call or book online today.