Hawaii Dermatology & Surgery Center - icon White

Mohs Surgery

At Hawaii Dermatology & Surgery, Dr. Emily Wong offers expert Mohs micrographic surgery to treat skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. This precise, layer-by-layer technique ensures complete cancer removal while preserving healthy tissue.

What is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs Micrographic Surgery is the gold standard for treating skin cancer, offering the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This advanced technique is performed in stages, with real-time microscopic examination of the tissue to ensure complete cancer removal. Our expert team in Aiea, HI, provides meticulous care to minimize scarring and deliver the best possible results. If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, schedule a consultation today to learn how Mohs surgery can help.

When to Consider Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is typically recommended for specific types of skin cancer or unique patient needs. Common indications include:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
    • Slow-growing, pearly or waxy bumps.
    • Non-healing sores that bleed or crust.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
    • Red, firm nodules or scaly, crusted lesions.
    • Wounds that don’t heal and may be painful.
  • Melanoma (in select cases):
    • Irregularly shaped, multicolored lesions.
    • Rapidly evolving or growing moles.
  • Other Situations:
    • Recurrent skin cancers.
    • Tumors in cosmetically or functionally important areas.
    • Cancers with poorly defined edges or aggressive subtypes.

If you notice suspicious growths, changes in moles, or non-healing lesions, consult a dermatologist promptly for evaluation and treatment.

Melanoma on the skin of a woman

Why Mohs Surgery Is the Gold Standard for Skin Cancer Treatment

Mohs Micrographic Surgery offers unparalleled advantages over other treatment methods. Here’s why it’s the preferred choice for many patients:

Treatment Process:

What to Expect During Mohs Surgery

  1. Pre-Surgical Evaluation: Before surgery, your dermatologist will review your medical history, examine the cancer site, and discuss the procedure in detail.
  2. Anesthesia and Preparation: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
  3. Layer-by-Layer Tissue Removal
    • The visible tumor is carefully removed first.
    • A thin layer of surrounding tissue is excised and mapped to ensure accurate orientation.
    • The tissue is processed and examined under a microscope to detect cancer cells.
  4. Microscopic Analysis
    • Each tissue layer is meticulously analyzed to identify cancerous cells.
    • If cancer is present, only the affected areas are removed in the next layer.
  5. Complete Cancer Removal: The process continues until all margins are clear, meaning no cancerous cells remain.
  6. Reconstruction and Wound Closure
    • Depending on the size and location of the wound, your dermatologist may perform primary closure, skin grafts, or allow the wound to heal naturally.
    • Care is taken to ensure optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes.
  7. Post-Operative Care and Follow-Up: You will receive detailed instructions on wound care and schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure no recurrence.

This systematic approach removes every cancerous cell while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Healing and Recovery After Mohs Surgery

Most patients experience excellent outcomes following Mohs surgery. The procedure’s precision allows for complete cancer removal while minimizing scarring and preserving functionality. Recovery is generally straightforward, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days. At Hawaii Dermatology & Surgery Center, we ensure that your post-surgical care is seamless, providing guidance and support every step of the way.

With proper care and regular follow-ups, Mohs surgery offers long-lasting results and a significantly reduced risk of recurrence, allowing you to focus on enjoying life with peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mohs surgery painful?

No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you’ll remain comfortable. Post-surgical discomfort is minimal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

The duration varies depending on the case’s complexity but typically lasts a few hours, as each layer is processed and analyzed during surgery.

Some scarring is expected, but advanced techniques minimize its appearance. Your dermatologist will discuss cosmetic outcomes with you.

Recurrence is rare, as the procedure ensures complete removal of cancerous cells. Regular skin checks help monitor your overall skin health.

Most insurance plans cover Mohs surgery for skin cancer treatment. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.

Before and after Mohs Surgery:
What to Expect for Patients

Trust Hawaii Dermatology & Surgery

At Hawaii Dermatology & Surgery in Aiea, HI, we specialize in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, providing expert care tailored to your needs. Our commitment to precision and patient satisfaction ensures the best possible outcomes for skin cancer treatment.

Schedule your consultation today to learn more about Mohs surgery and how it can protect your health and appearance. Let us help you achieve clear, healthy skin with confidence!

Additional Dermatology Services

We offer a range of additional dermatology services for all skin, hair, and nail concerns.