Do You Need a Mohs Surgeon?
There are several reasons why a patient would want to visit a dermatologist, from addressing troublesome acne to seeking skin rejuvenation treatments for aged skin. A well-trained and experienced board-certified dermatologist offers expert advice to patients on all matters of the skin, big or small. And when it comes to dealing with the most serious of all skin conditions, a dermatologist who is trained in the practice of Mohs micrographic surgery can literally make the difference between life and death.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 9,500 people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer every day – or 3.4 million people per year. Considering that roughly 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetimes, the need for expert assessment and treatment of skin cancer has never been greater.
The importance of sun protection cannot be overstated, especially the daily application of high-SPF sunscreens, regardless of weather or time of year. This can go a long way in helping to prevent skin cancers and other common sun damage from occurring. However, if a patient notices an abnormal growth, then it is vital that it be examined by a board-certified dermatologist; and, if a growth is determined to be skin cancer, that dermatologist must be equipped with the tools and expertise to ensure patients absolute removal and treatment of their lesion.
Advanced Training in Micrographic Surgery
At Dermatology Consultants, our team of fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons are specifically skilled in the use of micrographic surgery, a process that is recognized among the dermatologic community as the most effective method for the biopsy, removal, and subsequent treatment of skin cancer lesions. Mohs micrographic surgery employs precise surgical techniques to remove layer after layer of skin tissue. Upon the removal of each layer, the skin is examined for signs of cancerous growth. By applying careful, methodical assessment of skin tissue throughout the removal of cancerous lesions, Mohs surgeons guarantee that skin cancer is removed entirely, and that no additional harm is made to surrounding, healthy skin tissue.
It might seem obvious that the treatment and removal of skin cancer should be absolute. However, through other forms of surgery, there is a chance that not every layer of cancerous tissue is removed, leaving a high risk for recurring lesions and serious consequences to patient health. By entrusting the expertise of a Mohs surgeon, however, patients’ minds can be eased knowing that their doctors have been trained to address skin cancer through the most effective means available.
If you have an abnormal growth that you would like examined, or have additional questions regarding Mohs surgery, then contact us today to schedule your skin consultation.