FAQS

Mohs Surgery

  • The length of time is highly variable and depends on how many times the surgeon needs to go back and get more tissue to fully remove the cancer. These are called “stages”. Generally, Mohs surgery takes a few hours, but in rare cases can last all day if many stages are required. Most of the time is spent waiting for the tissue to be processed and put on slides to look at under the microscope. While you are waiting for this to be done, you will be bandaged and made comfortable. You may wait at the office, or can leave if you wish to get something to eat. You can even wait at home if you live close by. Our staff will call you after the Mohs surgeon has reviewed your slides and is ready for the next step, whether that be to take another stage or to suture the wound.

  • Yes, it is important to have a good breakfast before coming to the office. We have snacks and drinks available for you in the lobby, and you may bring additional food or drinks if you prefer. As mentioned above, you can even go and get food while you are waiting for the tissue to be processed and put on slides.

  • Do not stop any blood thinners that have been recommended or prescribed for you by another healthcare provider, unless they tell you that these can safely be discontinued. If you are taking vitamins or supplements such as Vitamin E, fish oil, or gingko biloba, and these were not recommended by another healthcare provider, it is best to stop these a week before the surgery if possible.

  • Generally, over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol are sufficient to control the pain following surgery. However, if you are suffering from severe pain following your surgery, please speak with your surgeon and other pain medications may be recommended. Please visit our post-surgical instructions page for more information and for recommendations regarding Tylenol and other pain medications.

Skin Cancer Overview

  • The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are more common and generally less aggressive, while melanoma is less common but more dangerous if not detected and treated early.

  • Risk factors for skin cancer include excessive sun exposure, fair skin, a history of sunburns, family history of skin cancer, use of tanning beds, exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, and a weakened immune system.

  • You can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer by practicing sun safety measures, such as wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and avoiding tanning beds.

  • Skin cancer can appear in various forms, including changes in moles, new growths, or unusual skin lesions. Warning signs may include changes in size, shape, color, or texture of a mole, or the development of a new growth that doesn't heal.

  • Skin cancer is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, dermatoscopy (skin surface microscopy), skin biopsy (removal of a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope), and other imaging tests or procedures as needed.

  • The frequency of skin checks or screenings for skin cancer depends on individual risk factors, such as a history of skin cancer, extensive sun exposure, fair skin, or a family history of skin cancer. It's best to discuss with your provider to determine an appropriate schedule for screenings.

Skin Cancer Treatment

  • Treatment options for skin cancer depend on the type, size, location, and stage of the cancer, as well as the individual's overall health. Common treatments include surgical procedures (such as excisional surgery, Mohs surgery), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and topical medications.

  • Mohs surgery is a specialized surgical technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer. It involves removing cancerous tissue layer by layer and examining each layer under a microscope until no cancer cells are detected, thereby minimizing damage to healthy tissue and maximizing cure rates.

  • Complications or side effects of skin cancer treatment may include scarring, infection, pain, changes in skin sensation, and in rare cases, recurrence of cancer. Our staff will discuss potential risks and benefits with you before starting treatment.

  • The prognosis for skin cancer depends on various factors, including the type, stage, and treatment of the cancer, as well as individual factors such as age and overall health. Early detection and treatment generally lead to better outcomes.

Wound Care