Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Dr. Cesar Guerrero

What is Mohs?

Mohs micrographic surgery is the gold standard in treating the most common skin cancers. It is a precise and specialized surgical technique which involves removing thin layers of cancer-containing skin one at a time. Each layer is examined under a microscope until no cancer cells remain. This method allows for maximum preservation of healthy tissue while ensuring complete removal of the cancer making it especially desirable for sensitive or visible areas like the face.


Benefits of Mohs surgery

  • Outpatient procedure performed in office under local anesthesia- no need to stay at the hospital or undergo potential complications with general anesthesia 

  • Highest cure rate (up to 99%) for many types of skin cancer

  • Precise cancer removal using microscopic examination of tissue margins

  • Maximal preservation of healthy tissue, minimizing scarring

  • Same-day results, as tissue is examined on-site during surgery

  • Fewer follow-up treatments due to complete cancer removal in one visit

  • Ideal for cosmetically sensitive areas (e.g., face, ears, hands)

  • Effective for recurrent or aggressive skin cancers

  • Reduced risk of cancer recurrence due to thorough margin assessment

Mohs Surgery Steps