Mohs surgery is a technique to remove skin cancers. This procedure, named after its founder, removes only affected skin, leaving healthy tissue unharmed. People with certain medical problems may not be eligible candidates for this type of surgery.
Extreme Anxiety or Phobia
If you have extreme anxiety or a phobia of surgery, this procedure may not be for you. Mohs surgery uses only local anesthetic around the wound area, so the patient is awake during the entire procedure. It is important that you are calm and relaxed so that your body is still and the doctor can effectively do the procedure. If you have anxiety or a phobia, talk to your doctor about options for sedation or techniques to help you relax.
Diabetes
Diabetes can cause wounds to not heal correctly. People with diabetes may be prone to have skin problems already, such as itching, infections or dry skin. Mohs surgery would create a wound that may not heal due to complications of diabetes. Your doctor will consider the risks and decide if the surgery is right for you.
Conditions that Require Blood Thinners
If you have a condition that requires you to take daily blood thinning medications, you may not be a candidate for this surgery. Mohs surgery sometimes creates a larger wound that other surgeries, and the risk of bleeding is already increased. Depending on your situation, the doctor may ask you to stop taking medication for a week or so before surgery, or he may choose another type of procedure for your condition.
