Types of Skin Cancer Treated with Mohs Surgery

When it comes to treating certain types of skin cancer, precision matters. Dr. Steve S. Oberemok, a board-certified dermatologist in Hemet and Murrieta, CA, offers Mohs surgery for skin cancers that require the highest cure rate with the least amount of tissue removal. This specialized procedure is known for its accuracy, especially in areas where preserving healthy skin is important for function or appearance.

What Is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is a technique used to treat skin cancer by removing one layer of tissue at a time and examining each layer under a microscope. The process continues until no cancer cells are seen, which means only cancerous tissue is removed while healthy skin remains untouched. This method is especially useful for areas like the face, ears, or hands, where preserving as much healthy skin as possible is important.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and often appears as a pearly bump or a sore that doesn’t heal. It tends to grow slowly but can become more serious if left untreated. Mohs surgery is often recommended for BCCs on the face, neck, or other sensitive areas where precision is key.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma is another common skin cancer that may appear as a scaly patch, open sore, or raised growth. It can be more aggressive than BCC and may spread if not treated. Mohs surgery is frequently used for SCCs, especially those in high-risk areas or with aggressive growth patterns.

Some Melanomas and Other Skin Cancers

While melanoma is not typically treated with Mohs surgery, certain early or superficial forms of melanoma may be eligible. In some cases, rare skin cancers like sebaceous carcinoma or Merkel cell carcinoma may also be treated using the Mohs technique, depending on location and stage.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or need a second opinion, Dr. Steve S. Oberemok offers expert care and advanced treatment options in Hemet and Murrieta, CA. To learn more about Mohs surgery or to schedule an appointment, call (951) 658-9461. Your skin health is our top priority.