Why is Mohs Surgery so Effective?

Even with careful sun protection today, the risk of skin cancer from past sun exposure remains a looming concern. An accurate diagnosis and effective treatment are essential for an optimal outcome if you detect a suspicious spot.

Florida Dermatology Associates provides a supportive environment where patients can get clear answers and access advanced treatments, like Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Ruben Moreno, MD, specializes in this technique for precisely removing high-risk skin tumors.

Not all skin cancer treatments are created equal. Learn why MMS offers such exceptional cure rates — up to 99% — and how it can make a difference for you.

How Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) works

MMS is a specialized technique for removing skin cancer with exceptional precision, layer by layer. Our goal is to completely excise the cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Here’s how it works: Dr. Moreno removes a thin layer of skin from the cancerous area, and then immediately examines it under a microscope. This procedure allows him to pinpoint and map the exact location of any remaining cancer cells.

If the analysis reveals any lingering cancer cells, Dr. Moreno removes another layer, but only from the area where those cells were identified. He repeats this process, meticulously examining each layer until no cancer is present.

The advantages of MMS

MMS boasts the highest success rates of all treatments for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the most common forms of skin cancer. But that’s not the only reason it’s often the preferred option.

Because Dr. Moreno can precisely target and remove cancerous cells while sparing healthy tissue, you’re left with small scars that heal quickly, which makes a big difference, particularly for cancers on the face, neck, or other areas where appearance is a top priority. 

Another thing that sets MMS apart is the convenience. The entire process — removal, examination, and any necessary reconstruction — often happens in just one visit. There’s no running back and forth for multiple surgical appointments.

And then there’s the peace of mind. You can leave the office knowing the cancer is most likely gone, allowing you to move forward with confidence and focus on healing. This combination of advantages makes MMS the gold standard in skin cancer treatment.

Who is a good candidate for MMS?

While MMS is an exceptionally effective procedure, it’s not the right treatment for every case of skin cancer. Dr. Moreno can determine if it’s the right approach for you, but we often choose MMS in situations such as:

• Large or aggressive skin cancers
• Cancer that comes back after previous treatment
• Cancer that has poorly defined borders

Every patient is unique, and the best treatment plan is one that is tailored to your specific needs. Dr. Moreno and our expert team can help you explore your options and achieve the best possible outcome. 

Facing a skin cancer diagnosis can be daunting, but with the right treatment and support, healing is possible. For more information about MMS or to schedule a skin cancer screening, make an appointment at Florida Dermatology Associates online or by phone today.