Remove skin cancer with precision through Mohs Micrographic Surgery, a specialized technique offered at Seaside Dermatology. Ideal for treating basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other aggressive or recurrent skin cancers, this method ensures complete cancer removal while preserving healthy tissue for optimal cosmetic results.
Overview
Mohs Micrographic Surgery in Englewood, FL is a specialized technique for treating skin cancer with precision. This procedure involves removing cancerous tissue layer by layer and examining each layer under a microscope. If cancer cells are detected at the edges, additional layers are removed until the margins are clear. Mohs surgery is particularly effective for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and recurrent cancers, especially in areas where preserving healthy skin is crucial. At Seaside Dermatology, this method ensures complete cancer removal while maintaining optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Concerns Treated:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): Basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent type of skin cancer, often presenting as a small, shiny bump or a scaly patch on sun-exposed areas. It typically grows slowly and is rarely metastatic, but can invade local tissues if left untreated. BCC commonly appears on the face, ears, and neck.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Squamous cell carcinoma often appears as a firm, red nodule or a rough, scaly patch on your skin. It can develop from precancerous actinic keratosis or in areas frequently exposed to the sun. SCC has a higher risk of spreading compared to BCC, making early and thorough treatment crucial.
- Recurrent skin cancers: Recurrent skin cancers are those that return after initial treatment. They can arise from previously treated areas or new lesions in the same location. These cancers may be more challenging to treat and often require more advanced methods to ensure complete eradication and prevent further recurrence.
Schedule an appointment to discuss MOHS surgery in Englewood, FL and whether this is the right option for you.
Concerning Symptoms:
- Persistent, non-healing sore or ulcer
- Shiny, pearly bump on sun-exposed skin
- Red, scaly patch or nodule that grows over time
- Firm, elevated growth with a crusty surface
- Bleeding or oozing from a skin lesion
- Itchy or tender area on the skin that doesn’t improve
- New growth or changes in existing moles
- Dark, unevenly colored spots or patches
- Skin lesion with irregular, jagged edges
- Swelling or redness around a lesion
Why It’s Done
Mohs surgery is performed to ensure the complete removal of skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This technique is particularly effective for cancers that are large, aggressive, or located in cosmetically sensitive areas, such as the face or hands. By removing the cancerous tissue layer by layer and examining each layer microscopically, Mohs surgery minimizes the risk of cancer recurrence and maximizes cosmetic outcomes. This approach helps achieve a high cure rate and reduces the likelihood of cancer returning.
Benefits:
- High cure rate for skin cancers, including difficult cases
- Minimizes risk of cancer recurrence by ensuring complete removal
- Preserves healthy tissue, which is crucial for cosmetic outcomes
- Allows for immediate examination of removed tissue for accurate results
- Reduces the need for additional surgeries by addressing cancerous cells in one procedure
- Suitable for cancers in delicate or high-risk areas, such as the face and hands
Your Experience
Before
Before your Mohs surgery in Englewood, FL, you will have a consultation with your dermatologist to discuss the procedure and your specific case. Your doctor will review your medical history, explain the surgical process, and answer any questions you may have. On the day of the procedure, wear comfortable clothing and avoid applying makeup on the treatment area.
During
You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Your dermatologist will remove the cancerous tissue in thin layers and examine each layer under a microscope for cancer cells. This process continues until the margins of the removed tissue are clear of cancerous cells. The procedure may take several hours, depending on the extent of the cancer. You might need to wait between each layer while the tissue is examined, so bring something to pass the time.
After
After the surgery, your treatment area will be bandaged, and you’ll receive instructions on how to care for the wound. You may experience some swelling, redness, or minor discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications. Follow your dermatologist’s aftercare instructions closely to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. You will have follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure no cancerous cells remain.
Schedule an Appointment
Seaside Dermatology is dedicated to providing expert care with advanced Mohs Micrographic Surgery in Englewood, FL, ensuring precise surgical techniques and personalized treatment plans for the best outcomes in skin cancer treatment. If you suspect you have skin cancer or need a thorough evaluation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Early detection and treatment can save lives, so schedule an appointment with us today to explore your options and receive top-notch care.
