Overview
Mohs surgery is a specialized procedure used to treat skin cancer. It involves removing thin layers of skin one at a time, with each layer examined under a microscope for cancer cells. The process continues until no cancer cells are detected.
The goal of Mohs surgery is to remove all cancerous tissue while sparing as much healthy skin as possible. This technique offers a high cure rate and can help avoid the need for additional treatments or follow-up surgeries.
Dr. Sydney Proffer is a board-certified Mohs specialist with years of experience diagnosing various skin cancers and providing successful treatment outcomes with Mohs micrographic surgery.
The procedure is typically done with local anesthesia, so you remain awake but comfortable. Most patients are able to go home the same day without the need for hospitalization.
Why Use Mohs?
Mohs surgery is a specialized procedure used to treat skin cancer. It involves removing thin layers of skin one at a time, with each layer examined under a microscope for cancer cells. The process continues until no cancer cells are detected.
The goal of Mohs surgery is to remove all cancerous tissue while sparing as much healthy skin as possible. This technique offers a high cure rate and can help avoid the need for additional treatments or follow-up surgeries. Mohs surgery is the gold standard for treating skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). With a 99% cure rate for certain skin cancers, Mohs surgery provides the highest level of success. The decision to use Mohs depends on multiple factors, including the type, location, size, and aggressiveness of the skin cancer. The procedure is typically done with local anesthesia, so you remain awake but comfortable. Most patients are able to go home the same day without the need for hospitalization.
Risks
Mohs surgery is considered safe and effective, but like all procedures, it does come with some risks. Possible complications include:
- Bleeding
- Tenderness or mild pain at the surgical site
- Infection
Less common side effects can include:
- Temporary or permanent numbness near the treatment area
- Muscle weakness (if nearby nerves are affected)
- Sharp or radiating pain
- Scarring
Our team takes every precaution to minimize risks and ensure your comfort throughout the process.
How to Prepare
To help ensure a smooth experience, your surgeon may suggest the following:
- Tell us about your medications and supplements, especially blood thinners or herbal remedies that may increase bleeding.
- Plan to spend several hours at our office. While most Mohs procedures take less than four hours, we recommend setting aside the full day just in case.
- Wear comfy clothing. Dressing in layers can help keep you comfortable during your visit.
- Bring something to pass the time. You may spend time waiting while your tissue samples are examined.
- Eat normally before your appointment. Unless you are advised otherwise.
What to Expect
Mohs surgery is a careful, step-by-step process that involves removing skin cancer and examining the tissue under a microscope in real time. Because each layer is analyzed immediately, the procedure can take several hours. Most patients spend about 3–4 hours with us on the day of surgery, though some may need more or less time depending on their individual case.
Between each stage, you’ll wait comfortably in our subwait waiting room, a dedicated space designed specifically for Mohs patients. This allows you privacy and relaxation during the process while we complete the microscopic analysis.
Your experience and instructions before and after surgery may vary depending on your medical history and the specifics of your skin cancer. Our team will provide you with clear, personalized guidance every step of the way.
Results and Recovery
One of the key benefits of Mohs surgery is immediate results. You’ll know by the end of your appointment whether all of the cancer has been successfully removed.
Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure the best cosmetic outcome. Our team at ProDerm is here to support you throughout your recovery with guidance, care, and compassion.
Visit the American College of Mohs Surgery to see some examples of Before & After Patient Photos.
Why Choose Dr. Proffer?
Dr. Sydney Proffer is a board-certified Mohs micrographic surgeon with extensive expertise in treating skin cancer and performing precise reconstructive surgery. She has personally completed over 5,000 Mohs surgeries and reconstructions, giving her both the technical skill and experience to achieve the highest cure rates while preserving healthy tissue.With her advanced fellowship training and thousands of successful procedures, Dr. Proffer combines meticulous surgical technique with an artistic eye for reconstruction—helping patients not only overcome skin cancer but also achieve the best possible functional and cosmetic outcomes.