Melanoma is one of the most severe types of skin cancer. If left untreated, it becomes difficult to treat and can lead to death. Annually, it causes the most skin cancer fatalities.
The key to treating melanoma is early detection. If it is caught soon enough, it is almost always curable. If it goes unnoticed or untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body, which is when the serious risks can appear. Stages of melanoma start with localized and non-invasive growths and move into the more serious forms that have spread to other parts of the body.
Mohs surgery has been around for over 85 years, and its usage continues to grow.
While Mohs surgery is commonly used for other forms of skin cancer, like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, it’s increasingly being used as alternative forms of treatment for other types of skin cancer.
What is Mohs surgery?
Developed the 1930’s, Mohs surgery is an extremely effective procedure where the microscopic examination of removed tissues is actually happening during the surgery, rather than after. The surgeon removes the skin tissue, layer by layer. Rather than making an educated guess, each layer of removed skin is checked for the presence of cancer cells. Once the surgeon reaches the cancer-free skin, the procedure is stopped. They can remove cancer, while leaving the healthy skin intact. With excellent cure rates, low reoccurrence rates, and excellent cosmetic appeal, it’s no wonder why Dermatologists continue to prefer this type of surgery.
Traditionally, Mohs surgery has been used for the two most common types of skin cancer (basal squamous cell carcinomas). Today, it is being used to treat other forms of skin cancer, including melanoma.
The procedure can be done right in your Dermatologist’s office, under local anesthetic. It usually takes a few hours, so you’re in and out over the course of a day.
To learn more about melanoma, and why Mohs surgery is considered such an effective method of treatment, check out the Skin Cancer Foundation’s article about Melanoma Treatments.
Mohs Surgery For Melanoma in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch
If you’ve been diagnosed with melanoma, you can book a consultation with a Dermatologist to discuss treatment options, such as Mohs surgery, in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch. With three convenient locations in Florida, our expert Dermatologists are pleased to answer any of your skin care questions.
