Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Compared to standard procedures, Mohs surgery removes the smallest amount of healthy tissue, which minimizes scarring and preserves skin function and appearance. It also allows for the complete removal of most skin cancers. In fact, it provides the highest potential for recovery, with a 99 percent cure rate for new skin cancers and a 95 percent cure rate for recurrent skin cancers, even when other treatments have failed.

At Cooper University Hospital, our dermatologic or Mohs surgeons offer world class care and have extensive experience performing MOHS.

Understanding the procedure

Mohs involves the removal of the skin cancer layer by layer, with the help of a microscope. First, the visible tumor is removed. Next, successive layers of skin are surgically removed (one layer at a time) until microscopic examination reveals no further cancer cells. It is generally done on an outpatient basis, meaning there is no overnight hospital stay, using a local anesthetic.

Indications for the procedure

It is important to know that Mohs surgery is not used for the treatment of all skin cancers. It is typically used in those skin cancers that have recurred following previous treatment and for cancers that are at high risk for recurrence, such as those that grow rapidly or where the edge of the tumor is not easily defined. Mohs surgery is also used for cancers where preservation of healthy skin tissue is critical such as the face, nose, ears, eyelids, lips, hairline, hands, feet and genitals.