What is Mohs?
Mohs micrographic surgery, or Mohs, is the gold standard treatment for skin cancers around the head and neck.
Highest Cure Rate
• Up to 94% for secondary tumors
Patient Centered
• Local Anesthesia
Best Outcome
• Maximizes aesthetic result
Most Precise
• Spaces healthy tissue
Cost-Effective
• Includes pathology & wound repair
History of Mohs
Mohs micrographic surgery was developed by its namesake, Dr. Frederic E. Mohs, during his medical studies from 1929 to 1934. Dr. Mohs applied techniques from his mentor, professor Michael Guyer, who specialized in preparing frozen tissue for microscopic exams. This method allowed Dr. Mohs to precisely identify cancer around essential structures like nerves and blood vessels. The technique has significantly evolved; by the 1950s, Dr. Mohs introduced fresh tissue excision, improving surgical results and reducing recovery times, which enabled immediate wound reconstruction. Today, the method's defining feature remains its detailed microscopic analysis of color-coded tissue maps. Ongoing technological advances, including cryostats for tissue freezing and automatic staining machines, continue to support its growth and incredible effectiveness.
What to Expect
Postoperative complications are rare following Mohs surgery. As a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, Dr. Mosher is an expert in Mohs surgery and cutaneous reconstructive surgery and will managing any resultant complications that may occur.
Click here for more information on post-Mohs care.
Contact us immediately if you experience any postoperative complications.
Mohs versus Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy
Comparing the 2 skin cancer treatments
Mohs
IRT
✓ Mohs only removes the skin cancer, preserving healthy skin.
X Radiation damages everything in its path, including healthy skin.
✓ 100% of the skin is evaluated to ensure complete cancer removal with Mohs.
X There is no confirmation that the cancer has been removed with radiation.
✓ Gold standard treatment for most skin cancers, even aggressive ones.
X Not recommended as a first or even second-line treatment option by national cancer guidelines.
✓ Cancer is cured in a single visit.
X Requires 15 to 20 treatments over several days to weeks.
✓ Over 99% cure rate.
X At least 1 in 20 will come back.
✓ Superior long-term cosmetic outcome.
X Unpredictable long-term cosmetic outcome.
X Can cause more skin cancers.
✓ CURES skin cancer.
X Skin irritation, blistering, peeling, color changes, hair loss, tooth decay, and damage to salivary glands, + more.
✓ Wound is repaired same day.
X Very Expensive.
✓ Cost effective.