Mohs AND SLOW Mohs SURGERY
Excising Skin Cancer With Precision
Mohs and slow Mohs surgery are precise surgical techniques used to treat skin cancer. It involves the removal of thin layers of cancer-containing skin, one portion at a time, and examining each layer under a microscope until no more cancer cells are detected. This method allows for the complete removal of cancerous tissue while sparing as much healthy skin as possible. Dr. Chang and our team are proud to offer both traditional Mohs and slow Mohs surgery techniques to effectively treat skin cancer while offering our patients minimal scarring and the best possible cosmetic outcomes, including a low recurrence rate.
Benefits Of Mohs And Slow Mohs Surgery
Developed by Dr. Frederick E. Mohs, Mohs and Slow Mohs Surgery surgery is a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer. By at first only removing the visible part of the cancer and the surrounding tissue, it ensures that only the greatest amount of skin is preserved. The surgery:
Skin Cancers It Treats
While Mohs surgery is not suitable for every skin cancer, it is especially effective for non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It is also a suitable treatment for cancers that:
How We Perform Mohs Surgery At Chang Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center
Using a scalpel, our dermatology team carefully removes one portion of skin and examines it in our lab under a microscope. If Dr. Chang and our team find cancer, an additional layer of skin is removed and examined and this process is repeated until there is no remaining evidence of cancer. This technique allows for extra precise removal while preserving the most amount of healthy skin.
While our team examines the portion of the skin in the lab, our specialist will place a temporary bandage over the affected area. We mark the spot where the cancer was removed so that our surgeon knows where to take an additional portion if necessary.
After removing all the cancer, we will repair most wounds that day. Some wounds, however, such as more complex or larger ones, may require more attention and additional surgery.
Slow Mohs Surgery
A modified version of the procedure is slow Mohs, also known as staged excision. This procedure involves examining the excised portion for a longer period of time as compared to traditional Mohs. Though requiring more appointments, it is very effective for treating melanoma, especially melanoma early or stage 0 melanoma, or melanoma situ, which is shallow and sits on top of the skin. It involves examining the cancer for around 24 hours under a microscope as opposed to right away. However, it may not be the best option for all melanomas, including deeper ones and those that have spread.
Mohs And Slow Mohs Surgery FAQs
We want you to feel not only informed, but also at ease before surgery at Chang Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center. It’s normal to have questions before your procedure. We are happy to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Mohs and slow Mohs surgery.
Your Skin Is Precious—Choose a Trustworthy Team
Ready to take the next step toward healthier skin? At Chang Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center, we’re committed to exceptional care in general dermatology, skin cancer treatment, and preventative care—all with your comfort in mind. Whether you’re in Virginia Beach or nearby, our minimally invasive approach ensures effective, natural-looking results. Schedule your appointment today and experience patient-first care that sets us apart.
