Precise, High-Success Skin Cancer Removal by Expert Dermatologists
When it comes to certain skin cancers — especially those on the face or areas where preserving healthy tissue matters — precision matters most. Mohs micrographic surgery is the most advanced surgical technique available for treating many types of skin cancer, offering the highest cure rates and the least amount of healthy tissue removed.
At Pure Dermatology Cosmetic and Hair Center in Newport Beach, Orange County, our board-certified dermatologic surgeons specialize in Mohs surgery, combining surgical precision with compassionate patient care.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a highly specialized technique used to remove skin cancers, including:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Certain recurrent or aggressive skin cancers
During a Mohs procedure, the surgeon removes thin layers of tissue and examines each layer under a microscope in real time. This process continues layer by layer until no cancer cells remain, ensuring the smallest possible margin of healthy tissue is removed while maximizing the removal of cancerous cells.
Why Choose Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery offers several distinct advantages:
- Highest cure rate, up to 99% for many common skin cancers
- Tissue-sparing precision, especially important for cosmetically sensitive areas
- Microscopic examination during surgery, ensures all cancer cells are removed
- Fewer unnecessary tissue cuts, reduces scarring and promotes better healing
For cancers located on the face, scalp, ears, neck, hands, or genitals, areas where preserving function and aesthetics are especially important, Mohs is often the recommended standard of care.
What to Expect During Your Mohs Procedure
Before Surgery
Your dermatologist will:
- Evaluate your skin cancer and medical history
- Review photos and biopsy results
- Explain the procedure, benefits, risks, and recovery
During Surgery
- Your surgeon administers local anesthesia for comfort
- A thin layer of tissue is removed and examined immediately
- The process is repeated in precise stages until no cancer remains
- The surgical team maps and documents tissue removed for accuracy
After Surgery
Once all cancer cells are cleared:
- Your surgeon repairs the wound
- Simple closure, skin flaps, or grafts may be used, depending on size and location
- Post-procedure care and follow-up support are provided
Most patients remain comfortable during the entire process, with breaks as needed between stages.
Recovery & Aftercare
After Mohs surgery:
- Mild swelling, redness, or bruising is common
- Wound care instructions are tailored to your specific closure
- Most patients return to normal activities within a few days
Your dermatologist will discuss scar management, sun protection, and long-term follow-up to monitor for new or recurrent skin cancers.
Who Is a Candidate for Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery may be recommended if you have:
- Skin cancer in a high-risk location (face, ears, hands, etc.)
- A recurrent or aggressive skin cancer
- A tumor with indistinct borders
- A large or fast-growing lesion
- A history of extensive sun exposure or immunosuppression
A consultation with our skin cancer experts determines the best option for your individual case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mohs Surgery
Is Mohs surgery painful?
No, local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
How long does the surgery take?
The length varies depending on cancer size and how many layers must be removed, but many procedures are completed in one visit.
Will there be scarring?
All surgery creates a scar, but Mohs preserves as much healthy tissue as possible, often resulting in smaller, less noticeable scars.
Is Mohs surgery covered by insurance?
Yes, most major insurance plans cover Mohs surgery when medically indicated.
How soon will I know my results?
Because tissue is examined during the procedure, you’ll know immediately when all cancer cells have been removed.
Protect Your Skin With Advanced Cancer Care
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or suspect a persistent lesion, the expert dermatologic surgeons at Pure Dermatology Cosmetic and Hair Center in Newport Beach, Orange County can help. Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rates with the greatest precision.
Call or Text Today to Schedule Your Skin Cancer Evaluation