Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Although a wide variety of options exist for treating skin cancers, Mohs surgery is without question the most effective. This procedure maximizes the skills of the dermatologist by allowing him to serve as both the surgeon and the pathologist. Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate for the treatment of basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers (~98%). It is particularly helpful for large tumors, recurrent tumor, tumors near important structures such as the eye or lip, and aggressive tumors (such as those occurring in young patients or those growing rapidly).

Click here to read a detailed description of the Mohs procedure. At the end of this section, I have included the info that should go on a separate page for this “click here”. It is called “Mohs Procedure Page”.

Skin Cancer Surgery and Reconstruction
In the United States alone, over one million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year, and that number seems to be steadily on the rise. Moreover, it is estimated that 93% to 97% of all skin cancer occurs on a highly visible part of the body such as the head, face, ears, neck, hands, and arms. The good news about skin cancer is that early detection (while the cancer is still in its localized stage) means a near 99% survival rate. The survival rate drops steadily in proportion to how far the cancer has spread at the time of detection, so regular screenings are important.

Digital Mole Mapping for Melanoma and Dysplastic Mole Patients
Mole mapping involves using a high quality SLR digital camera to take total body photographs of a patient. The body is broken down into approximately 20 sections by the Mirror Imaging System by Canfield (the number one medical photography system in the United States). These pictures are then used as a baseline to compare with the patient in subsequent visits. This allows early detection of new moles or subtle changes in existing moles. The result is earlier detection of atypical moles or melanoma, and less biopsies of moles that are stable and do not need a biopsy. A copy of the photograph can be placed on a CD for the patient to take home to assist them in self-monitoring.

Mole Removal
Melanoma develops when normal pigment-producing skin cells called melanocytes become abnormal, grow uncontrollably, and invade surrounding tissues. Usually only one melanoma develops at a time. Although melanomas can begin in an existing mole or other skin growth, most start in unmarked skin. Early detection and surgery to remove the melanoma cure most cases of primary melanoma. If not treated, most melanomas spread to other parts of the body over time and are fatal.