What Types of Skin Cancer Can Be Treated With Mohs Surgery?

When it comes to treating skin cancer, precision is crucial. Mohs surgery is an effective procedure that removes cancerous tissue layer by layer, preserving as much healthy skin as possible. It’s considered the gold standard for certain types of skin cancer.

At Georgia Dermatology Partners, where all our providers are certified by the American Board of Dermatology, we perform this surgery, which boasts high cure rates and minimal scarring. What types of skin cancer can Mohs surgery address? Here’s a closer look.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer cases. It often develops in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and hands. 

Mohs surgery is ideal for treating BCC because it completely removes cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. This precision is especially important for cancers in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas, like the nose or eyelids.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer type. It can appear as scaly patches, open sores, or warts. It may also spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. 

Mohs surgery is particularly effective for high-risk SCC cases, recurrent tumors, or cancers located in sensitive areas. Its tissue-sparing approach is crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes.

Melanoma in Situ

Mohs surgery isn’t the standard treatment for invasive melanoma. However, it is increasingly used for early-stage melanoma in situ, such as lentigo maligna.

This application allows for the precise removal of cancerous cells. This reduces the chance of recurrence while preserving healthy tissue. Mohs surgery is especially valuable when melanoma occurs on the face or other delicate areas.

Other Rare Skin Cancers

Mohs surgery can also treat less common types of skin cancer, such as:

• Sebaceous carcinoma
• Merkel cell carcinoma
• Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP)

These cancers often require a meticulous approach to ensure complete removal.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Have you been diagnosed with skin cancer, or suspect you may have it? If so, Mohs surgery could be the most effective solution.

Contact Georgia Dermatology Partners today to schedule a consultation. Call us at 770.972.4845 or book an appointment online at one of our five locations.