Who Is a Candidate for Mohs Surgery?

Statistics published by the American Academy of Dermatology Association estimate that 9,500 Americans are diagnosed with some form of skin cancer each day. This is a condition that can progress relatively quickly without help from a skin specialist but can often be treated successfully when caught early. See Dr. Sally Booth, Dr. Christy Waterman, and their staff at Booth Dermatology Group in Zionsville, IN, to determine if skin cancer is the diagnosis and learn about Mohs surgery as an option for treatment.

Skin Cancer Types

When you consult with your dermatologist, you’ll learn about the three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. The first two are the most common forms and can usually be treated by removing the cells. Melanoma is more aggressive and may require additional therapies.

Mohs Surgery to Treat Skin Cancer

Surgery by excision is the initial option to treat most cases of skin cancer. However, many patients have concerns about scarring, especially if the surgical area is in a very conspicuous place like the face, neck, chest, arms, or legs. In this case, the dermatologist may recommend Mohs micrographic surgery, which minimizes the amount of skin tissue removed. With Mohs surgery, your Zionsville, IN, dermatologist uses a microscope during the procedure to ensure that all cancerous cells are removed around the margins while you wait. It is more precise and accurate than other removal surgeries.

Mohs Surgery Aftercare Tips

After the doctor removes all abnormal cells, attention goes to ensuring that the wound is repaired and closed in a way that will give you the best possible cosmetic outcome. Your dermatologist will also give you some aftercare advice including:

• Limited activity, including exercise for at least a week.
• Avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects.
• Use only vaseline or a similar topical agent prescribed by your dermatologist on the sutured wound as it heals.
• Keep the area dry, avoid showering, and leave the dressing alone for at least two days.
• Immediately inform your dermatologist if the wound looks infected, begins bleeding, or becomes too painful.

Schedule a Skin Assessment and Consultation

Take an inventory of your skin health and determine if you may be displaying the signs of skin cancer. Dr. Sally Booth, Dr. Christy Waterman, and their staff can help you diagnose and treat this condition with Mohs surgery at Booth Dermatology Group in Zionsville, IN. Call (317) 848-2427 today to schedule an exam with a dermatologist.