Mohs surgery is a highly specialized treatment for the total removal of skin cancer. It is most commonly performed on basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

This method differs from all other methods of treating skin cancer by the use of detailed mapping techniques and complete microscopic examination of all the tissues removed. By using these detailed mapping techniques and complete microscopic control, the Mohs surgeon can pinpoint areas involved with cancer that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye. Therefore, even the smallest microscopic roots of cancer can be removed. The result is: (1) the removal of as little normal skin as possible, and (2) the highest possibility for curing the cancer.

Some skin cancers, such as melanoma or atypical moles, require excision to remove. This is a short procedure in which the lesion is removed with a margin of healthy skin. Sutures are placed to close the wound and to optimize the appearance of the incision as it heals.

Benign skin lesions, such as cysts, lipomas or benign moles can also be removed with surgical excision. Please contact Dr. Joseph V. Lillis or Dr. Brooke A. Caufield for a consultation to discuss options for removal of these lesions.