Known as the gold standard for removing many types of skin cancer, including the two most common forms of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma), Mohs surgery offers a success rate of up to 99 percent while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. In other words: Mohs is the best option to remove your cancer and keep your skin looking great.

Mohs surgery is especially useful for skin cancers that have a high risk of recurrence or have recurred after previous treatment, are located in areas where you want to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible (i.e. around the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, etc.), have borders that are hard to define and are large or aggressive.

So, how does the Mohs surgery work? First, a doctor will administer a local anesthesia to numb the affected area. Then, he/she will remove one thin layer of skin tissue at a time and examine it under a microscope, identifying any cancer cells present. This process continues until healthy, cancer-free tissues around the tumor is reached.

After confirmation that the skin cancer has been removed, the surgeon will perform any required reconstructive surgery. This could include primary wound closure, dermabrasion, skin graft or local flap repair. As you can see there are many reconstructive options and your surgeon will recommend the best option for you.

After the surgery is complete, a patient can go home the same day with the assistance of a friend or family member. During the recovery period, which typically lasts a couple of weeks, he/she should follow the doctor’s instructions for wound care, scar care and follow-up.

Our very own Dr. Adam Sperduto is one of seven fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic and reconstructive surgeons in the Charleston area. He completed his Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology fellowship at Surgical Dermatology Group and specializes in the treatment of all types of skin cancer in patients of all ages. His expertise includes reconstructive surgery to minimize scarring and maximize cosmetic and functional results.

To schedule an appointment at any of our offices, including our new satellite office in West Ashley, call 843-872-3015 or make a request online today!