Mohs surgery in Palm Beach is one of the most effective treatments for certain types of skin cancer, offering high cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. At Carroll Dermatology, we specialize in this precise surgical technique to treat skin cancers with minimal scarring and maximum success.
The decision starts with the type of skin cancer. Mohs surgery is most commonly recommended for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, especially when they are high-risk or located in sensitive areas. It may also be used in select cases of melanoma in situ. Dermatologists often suggest Mohs when the cancer is aggressive, has recurred, or is found on parts of the body where preserving healthy tissue is critical.
Size and location or other characteristics of the tumor play a major role. Tumors in cosmetically and functionally important areas—like the central face, eyelids, outer or inner corner of the eye, nose, lips, chin, ears,or fingers—are prime candidates for Mohs because the technique allows for complete cancer removal while sparing as much surrounding skin as possible.This leads to better cosmetic outcomes and fewer complications. Patients who have cancer in other areas, such as the genitals, hands, feet, ankles, nails, and nipples/areolas, may also be good candidates. We often recommend this surgery for tumors that grow aggressively, have unclear edges,or resist other treatments.
Patient health and medical history are also considered. Individuals who are in good general health, able to tolerate local anesthesia, and free from conditions that may impair healing are typically suitable candidates. It may not be recommended for patients who have a genetic syndrome, skin that has been previously treated with radiation, or a history of high-risk tumours.
Additionally, Mohs is often favored for patients with suppressed immune systems or those prone to developing multiple skin cancers, as the technique provides the most thorough removal and lowers the risk of recurrence.
Another key factor is recurrence. If a patient has had skin cancer removed before and it has returned, Mohs is often the best option due to its high precision and ability to trace the cancer’s exact margins.
For more advice about Mohs surgery, contact Palm Beach’s Carroll Dermatology by calling (561) 223-6238 or sending a message online.
