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Mohs Surgery

What Is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs Micrographic Surgery is the most advanced and effective technique for treating many types of skin cancer. This meticulous, tissue-sparing procedure allows our surgeons to remove cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Each removed layer of skin is examined under a microscope in real time until no cancer cells remain, ensuring the highest cure rate and the smallest possible scar.

At Vanguard Skin Specialists, our Mohs surgeons work closely with our board-certified plastic surgeons, providing a seamless experience from cancer removal to reconstruction. This collaborative approach means you receive expert medical care and a focus on your comfort, safety, and aesthetic outcome—all under one roof.

The Steps of Mohs Surgery

Skin cancers often have roots that extend beyond the visible tumor. The goal of Mohs surgery is to remove all of the cancer while leaving as much healthy tissue intact as possible. This leads to the highest cure rates—up to 99%—while minimizing scarring and the need for additional procedures. The surgery is complete when there is no evidence of residual cancer. The Mohs surgeon will then discuss options for reconstruction of the surgical defect.

STEP 1

STEP 1

The Mohs surgeon anesthetizes the area and surgically removes the visible tumor.
STEP 2

STEP 2

The skin specimen is mapped to the surgical site.
STEP 3

STEP 3

After the lab processes the tissue, the Mohs surgeon microscopically examines its entire surface and edges.
STEP 4

STEP 4

If cancer cells remain, the affected tissue will be precisely removed from the surgical site. Multiple stages may be required to remove the cancer roots completely.

What to Expect During Mohs Surgery

A healthcare professional wearing a blue glove examines moles on a patient’s back with a dermatoscope. The patient, dressed in a white medical gown, is carefully checked for unusual spots or lesions.

When Is Mohs Surgery Performed?

Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating certain types of skin cancer, particularly when precision and tissue preservation are crucial. It is often recommended for:

  • Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, especially those on the face, ears, neck, scalp, or hands
  • Recurrent or aggressive skin cancers that have returned after previous treatment
  • Cancers with ill-defined borders or those growing in scar tissue
  • Large or rapidly growing tumors where complete removal is essential
  • Patients at high risk of recurrence, including those who are immunocompromised

Our Mohs Surgeons

Vinh Chung, MD

Vinh Chung, MD

Brayden Healey, DO

Brayden Healey, DO

Renata Prado, MD

Renata Prado, MD

Mohs surgery is most effective when performed by a specially trained surgeon who has completed a rigorous and selective post-residency fellowship. Surgeons with the highest degree of training become members of the American College of Mohs Surgery, which is the “gold standard” in Mohs micrographic surgery.

Our Mohs surgeons are highly skilled and fellowship-trained. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, and together, they treat thousands of skin cancers annually.

Instructions for Patients

Your surgery coordinator is always available to answer your questions. This information is provided so you know how to prepare and what to expect.

More Information

American Academy of Dermatology
American College of Mohs Surgery
Skin Cancer Foundation

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Vanguard Skin Specialists is such an asset to our community. I received expert medical care, clear, explanations, and careful coordinated follow up with Mohs Surgery, as well as plastic surgery to close. I am very grateful for the results.

—Karen, Vanguard Patient
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The providers and all of the associates at this business are very professional, friendly and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Vanguard Skin to anyone looking for skin specialists... I have gone through two Mohs Surgeries at their facilities and the results could not have been better.

—Roger, Vanguard Patient
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The entire staff is personable & professional. I was pretty anxious going in for the Mohs procedure on my face but felt much better after Dr Chung answered all my questions about the procedure, which was very calming. He and his staff are very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Vanguard for all your dermatology needs.

—Diane, Vanguard Patient