In this Article

• What is Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS)? Why is the procedure called Mohs?
• Where can I have Mohs surgery, and how long does the surgery take?
• What kind of physician can perform Mohs surgery? Where can I find a doctor board-certified in Mohs?
• Is Mohs only for skin cancer?
• Am I a good candidate for Mohs surgery?
• What if I have artificial joints or other health issues?
• What areas are treatable by Mohs surgery?
• What are possible complications of Mohs?
• What is reconstruction? Will I have a scar?
• What are alternatives for Mohs surgery?
• What about insurance coverage and costs?
• How do I prepare for my surgery?
• How is recovery? Is it painful?
• How do I take care of my surgical area after Mohs surgery?
• What is the chance that my cancer will recur?
• How many "levels" of Mohs will I need?
• How are skin cancers treated?
• Mohs Surgery Index
• Find a local Dermatologist in your town

What areas are treatable by Mohs surgery?

Mohs is used primarily for the treatment of head and neck basal and squamous cell skin cancers. It is particularly useful for skin cancers in difficult areas such as nose, lips, ears, and genitals.

It is also used on hands and feet where there is not a lot of extra tissue for bigger surgical removals. Mohs is very effective for the treatment of recurrent tumors (tumors that were previously removed and have regrown at the same site). However, depending on the specific patient and tumor type, any area of the body may be treated by Mohs surgery.

What are possible complications of Mohs?

As with any surgery or procedure, Mohs is associated with possible risks and complications. While it is overall a very safe and effective minor surgical treatment, there are some possible uncommon complications. Since a scar usually forms anytime you cut the skin, most patients understand and can expect some type of a scar after skin-cancer removal.

Possible risks and complications of Mohs include (but are not limited to) bleeding, bruising, wound infection, pain, unsightly scar, keloid (raised, thick scar), cosmetic disfigurement, skin discoloration, nerve damage, allergic reactions, pain, reaction to local anesthesia, widened or sunken in (depressed) scar, wound opening (dehiscence) and splitting or retained stitches, cancer recurrence, need for further surgery or treatment including radiation or plastic surgery, and rarely death.

Minor, serious, or life-threatening reactions can occur with the use of anesthetics or with medications given before, after, or during surgery. Nerves controlling muscle movement, sensation, or other functions may be damaged. This nerve damage may be permanent. Overall, most patients tolerate the minor surgery very well without any complications.