What Is Mohs Surgery?

The Skin Cancer Foundation widely regards Mohs surgery as the most effective treatment method for the two most common types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma relates to the uncontrollable growth of cells that line the skin's deepest layer. But this type of skin cancer slowly progresses and doesn't typically spread to other body parts. Squamous cell carcinoma can metastasize and develops when the DNA of the flat, thin squamous cells in the middle and outer layers of the skin mutates. Mohs surgery in Tulsa, OK, only removes the skin containing cancer cells and has a high cure rate. Dr. Mary Christian-Reed at Dermatology and Laser Center of Oklahoma determine your candidacy for Mohs Surgery in Tulsa, OK, during a visit to our office for routine check-ups.

What Is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery removes a layer of tissue that our dermatologist observes through a microscope. Before surgery, the doctor will mark any residual tumors they locate and remove all cancer cells through Mohs surgery in Tulsa, OK. During surgery, our doctor removes the visible tumor and thin layer of surrounding skin to prevent cells from returning. If cancer cells remain, they'll remove the appropriate amount of skin and repeat this process until the cancer is completely gone. Mohs surgery benefits sensitive areas, such as the lip, eyelid, or nose, because it spares healthy tissue. Depending on the circumstances, the wound after surgery may require stitches to heal or may be left open.

Surgery of any kind is unnerving, but at the Dermatology and Laser Center of Oklahoma, Dr. Mary Christian-Reed will discuss the procedure in detail should you require it. They'll also address any questions or concerns, such as a family history of skin cancer and the chance of the cancer returning. For more information about Mohs surgery in Tulsa, OK, or to schedule an appointment, call (918) 494-0400.