Choosing a Mohs Surgery Specialist

Developed in the 1930s by Dr. Frederic Mohs, Mohs Surgery has helped many patients get rid of several common types of skin cancer. It has the highest cure rate of any other procedure in treating certain skin cancers and does so while limiting damage to healthy skin and tissue.

Do I Really Need Multiple Doctors?

No. In some cases, surgeons will utilize the skills of a pathologist and reconstructive surgeon to assist in the procedure, but in most cases, one surgeon performs the job of the surgeon, histotechnician, pathologist and reconstructive surgeon. A surgeon may perform all of the steps of the procedure and then utilize the skills of the reconstructive surgeon to repair skin and tissue after the procedure, while in other cases the surgeon may perform all of the steps, but use a pathologist to check the sample for cancer cells.

What Qualifies a Surgeon to Perform Mohs Surgery?

To put it simply, the Mohs surgeon must have undergone extensive training to be qualified to perform this procedure. Residency programs, fellowships, preceptorships and various training courses may provide dermatologists, surgeons and other doctors with the appropriate experience and qualifications. A few professional organizations offer continuing education in Mohs Surgery, such as the American Society for Mohs Surgery and the American College of Mohs Surgery. Ask your doctor about his or her experience, training and qualifications to perform the procedure.