Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, but the good news is that many forms can be treated successfully—especially when caught early. One of the most trusted and precise treatments available today is Mohs surgery.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with skin cancer, understanding your treatment options can help you feel more confident and prepared. This guide explains what Mohs surgery is, why it is so effective, and what to expect during recovery.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized procedure used to remove certain types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Unlike traditional skin cancer removal methods, Mohs surgery removes cancer layer by layer and examines each layer under a microscope in real time. This process continues until no cancer cells remain.
The goal is simple: remove all of the cancer while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Because of its accuracy, Mohs surgery for skin cancer is often recommended for areas where appearance and function are most important, such as the face, ears, nose, lips, scalp, hands, and feet.
Why Is Mohs Surgery So Successful?
One of the main reasons Mohs surgery is so effective is that it allows the surgeon to see exactly where the cancer ends. With other methods, doctors remove a visible area of cancer and send it to a lab for testing days later. If cancer cells remain, a second procedure may be necessary.
With Mohs surgery, testing happens immediately. The surgeon examines all edges of the removed tissue before proceeding. This means:
- Cancer is fully removed
- Healthy skin is preserved
- Fewer follow-up procedures are needed
- The chance of the cancer coming back is very low
The Mohs surgery success rate is impressive. For many common skin cancers, it can be as high as 98–99% when treating new cases. Even for cancers that have recurred after prior treatment, Mohs surgery still offers excellent results.
How Mohs Surgery Compares to Other Treatments
There are several treatment options for skin cancer, including surgical excision, cryotherapy, curettage, radiation therapy, and topical medications. Each method has its place, but Mohs surgery offers key advantages.
Traditional surgery removes a larger area of skin all at once. The edges are checked later, which may lead to more procedures if cancer remains.
Mohs surgery, on the other hand, is more precise. It removes only what is necessary and immediately assesses the tissue. This makes it ideal for:
- Hard-to-treat or recurring skin cancers
- Cancers with unclear borders
- Areas where saving healthy skin is important
- Larger or more aggressive tumors
For many patients, Mohs surgery provides the best balance of effectiveness, cosmetic results, and peace of mind.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Mohs surgery is usually done in a medical office under local anesthesia, meaning you are awake but comfortable. The procedure may take several hours because each layer is carefully examined before moving forward.
Here is what typically happens:
- The area is numbed
- A thin layer of tissue is removed
- The tissue is examined under a microscope
- If cancer is found, another layer is removed
- The process repeats until the cancer is gone
Once all cancer cells are removed, the surgeon will close the wound or discuss healing options.
How Long for Mohs Surgery to Heal?
Many patients ask, “How long for Mohs surgery to heal?” The answer depends on the size and location of the treated area, as well as the method of wound closure.
In general:
- Small wounds may heal in 2–4 weeks
- Larger or stitched areas may take 4–8 weeks
- Full healing and scar fading can take several months
Your provider will give you detailed care instructions to help the area heal properly and reduce scarring.
Recovery From Mohs Surgery
Recovery from Mohs surgery is usually straightforward. Most people can return to normal activities within a few days, although you may need to avoid heavy exercise or bending for about a week.
Common side effects include:
- Mild swelling
- Bruising
- Redness
- Temporary discomfort
These symptoms typically improve quickly. Maintaining a clean environment, adhering to wound care instructions, and attending follow-up visits will support proper healing.
Many patients are pleased with how their skin looks after recovery, especially since Mohs surgery preserves as much healthy tissue as possible.
Emotional Peace of Mind
Beyond the physical benefits, Mohs surgery often provides emotional reassurance. Knowing that the cancer has been fully removed—while protecting your appearance—can be a major relief. Patients appreciate that the procedure is thorough and that results are confirmed the same day.
Is Mohs Surgery Right for You?
Your dermatologist will recommend the best treatment based on your specific diagnosis. Mohs surgery is commonly used for:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Skin cancers on the face or neck
- Recurrent skin cancers
- Larger or aggressive tumors
If your provider suggests Mohs surgery, it is because the benefits strongly outweigh other options for your situation.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Mohs surgery is one of the most effective and precise treatments available for skin cancer today. By removing cancer in thin layers and examining each one immediately, it delivers high cure rates while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. This careful approach helps ensure the cancer is fully treated with the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Understanding your treatment options—and what to expect during recovery—can make a big difference in how confident you feel about your care. With proven results and a strong track record of success, Mohs surgery remains a trusted choice for many patients.
If you have concerns about a spot on your skin or are due for a routine check, our team is here to help. Schedule a skin exam today to get expert guidance, early detection, and personalized care for your skin health.
