09
Feb
Six steps to the Mohs micrographic surgery procedure to address skin cancer
Mohs micrographic surgery is the gold standard when treating skin cancer with precision and care. This specialized procedure removes cancerous skin cells while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. It’s effective, meticulous, and performed in a way that helps ensure the best outcomes for our patients at Precision Skin & Body Institute in Davie, Florida. Are you curious about what happens during this surgery? Below, we are breaking down the steps of Mohs surgery to better understand the process from start to finish!
What are the six steps involved in the Mohs procedure for skin cancer?
- Pre-surgery preparation. Before the procedure begins, we examine your skin and provide a detailed explanation of what will happen. We prepare the treatment area by numbing it with a local anesthetic. This means you will be awake, but totally comfortable, during the entire process!
- Removing the first layer. Our Mohs micrographic surgeon then carefully removes the visible portion of the cancerous tissue and a very thin margin of surrounding skin. This layer-by-layer approach ensures the ability to target the cancer and avoid removing healthy skin unnecessarily precisely. The tissue is then marked and analyzed.
- Microscopic analysis. Our doctor examines the removed tissue microscopically to determine if any cancer cells remain. We then map the tissue, identify cancerous areas, and trace them back to your skin’s surface.
- Repeat as needed. If the microscopic analysis reveals that cancer cells are still present, we go back in and remove another layer of tissue, specifically targeting the affected section. This process is repeated until the microscope gives a clean bill of health, meaning no cancer cells are left behind! The focused approach minimizes removing healthy skin, which is especially important on delicate areas such as the face.
- Wound repair. Once the cancer cells are entirely removed, it is time to restore the area. Our team decides on the best repair method, which might include letting the wound heal naturally, placing stitches, or performing a small reconstruction. The ultimate goal is to achieve the best final cosmetic and functional results.
- Recovery and follow-up. You then receive aftercare instructions specific to your needs to ensure a smooth recovery. While most of our patients experience minimal discomfort, it is still important to protect the healing area and follow up with your doctor as recommended. Regular monitoring is key to staying healthy and catching potential issues early to ensure the cancer does not reappear.
Who can I contact to learn more about this medical treatment for skin cancer?
If you’re ready to take charge of your skin’s health, contact Precision Skin & Body Institute in Davie, FL. Our skin specialists are here to guide you each step of the way! Schedule your consultation today with Drs. Lesley Clark-Loeser, Marianna Blyumin-Karasik, or Jordan Rosen by calling (954) 998-0345 and visiting the office at 3501 South University Drive #5.
Lesley Clark-Loeser MD, FAAD
Dr. Lesley Clark-Loeser, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist with extensive training in dermatology and dermatopharmacology, and the Co-founder of Precision Skin & Body Institute®. She completed her education and fellowships at prestigious institutions such as George Washington University, New York University School of Medicine, and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Clark-Loeser is the Co-founder of Precision Skin & Body Institute®. She has authored numerous professional publications and served as an investigator in over 25 clinical trials. Passionate about community education and giving back, she actively contributes to her field while maintaining memberships in several key dermatology organizations.
Marianna Blyumin-Karasik MD, FAAD
Dr. Marianna Blyumin-Karasik, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic, medical, and integrative dermatology. She co-founded Precision Skin & Body Institute® and launched Stamina®️ Cosmetics, a skincare line focused on enhancing skin resilience. With over a decade of experience and numerous accolades, Dr. Blyumin-Karasik is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a frequent speaker at national and international conferences. Fluent in Russian and proficient in medical Spanish, she is committed to promoting lifelong skincare and wellness through a holistic approach.
Jordan Rosen MD, FAAD
Dr. Jordan D. Rosen is a board-certified dermatologist with a passion for medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. He completed his undergraduate degree at Emory University, earning Phi Beta Kappa honors, and his medical degree from the University of Miami, where he was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha. Dr. Rosen trained at the University of Miami / Jackson Health System and has authored over 15 articles in leading medical journals. A South Florida native, he is dedicated to providing personalized, comprehensive care to the community he knows and loves.