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Why is Mohs surgery not used for melanoma?

What is the difference in surgery?

Mohs surgery use is on the increase and becoming more popular. However, it isn’t suitable for all kinds of skin cancer, and the prime example being a melanoma. While the skin issue may appear the same to a patient, there tends to be more of an urgency and a more dramatic result from a wide local excision. Learn why Mohs isn’t the preferred surgical procedure at present.

Why doesn’t Mohs surgery work for melanoma?

It is possible to hear your Mohs surgeon say you have melanoma in situ, or you have stage 0 melanoma. The good news is this hasn’t spread any further than the localized area.

They will schedule your procedure quickly to prevent further spreading. In the Mohs surgery, the surgeon will remove the tumor and include a margin of clear looking tissue. The piece of tissue can extend between, 0.5 to 1 cm in size.

After removal, it will be sewn together. While generally offering a high success rate, it leaves a considerable amount of scarring. It can also lead to loss of function depending on the region of the Mohs surgery.

Why Mohs surgery isn’t suitable for melanoma

Even with the rise of the Mohs surgery, the primary reason it is still not utilized for melanoma removal is the kind of skin cancer in melanoma is far more aggressive. In reality, this means there can be a high probability of reoccurrence and further spreading.

One other reason being the melanoma cancer cells are much harder to detect, particularly the atypical melanoma cells. If your surgeon can spot a melanoma quickly, it can be cured easily, although if it manages to spread, it can prove deadly.

Finding a Mohs surgeon in Pineville, NC

When searching for your Mohs surgeon, you need to be sure they can offer a healthy record of achievement in all kinds of skin cancer surgery. Once you know you are under the care of the best Mohs surgeon in Metrolina Dermatology, you know that your Mohs surgery will most likely be a success.

However, if you need quick advice, it can quickly be done without traveling, and all you need to do is contact the helpful specialists for one of their tele-dermatology sessions.  Even while remaining at home, you can learn a lot about your skin cancer, and the surgeon who will take care of you.

Dr. Sasha Haberle is a Pineville dermatologist and known as an expert in areas of dermatology, including medical, cosmetic, and surgical care. She is a Board-Certified dermatologist and Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon. All new patients are welcome in Metrolina Dermatology and the staff will advise the time and the best treatment for your Mohs skin treatments.

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