Mohs Micrographic Skin Cancer Surgery
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a precise and specialised technique used to treat skin cancer in areas where preserving healthy skin is crucial. This technique provides complete removal of the skin cancer while leaving minimal scarring, making it effective for cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face. Unlike conventional approaches that take a margin of healthy tissue, Mohs surgery precisely removes thin layers of skin to maximise healthy tissue preservation. It offers the highest success rate for treating many types of skin cancers, while ensuring optimal patient outcomes.
The Mohs surgery team at DIV is led by Professor Greg Goodman AM, Victoria’s first trained micrographic proceduralist. Professor Goodman has performed Mohs Micrographic Surgery since 1992 and has served as the director of the Mohs Micrographic Surgery unit at Skin Health Institute (formerly known as Skin & Cancer Foundation Inc.).
What Skin Cancers Can Mohs Surgery Treat?
This advanced procedure is highly effective for removing basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and other skin cancers. This includes various types of melanoma, including superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, lentigo maligna melanoma, and, in some cases, acral lentiginous melanoma.
It has high success rates and the ability to remove cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
The Mohs Micrographic Surgery Process
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a process that involves removing cancerous cells in thin layers, with each layer immediately examined under a microscope. If cancer cells are still found in a layer, additional tissue is carefully removed and analysed until no cancer cells remain. This ensures complete removal of cancerous cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. The procedure may take several hours, depending on the size and location of the cancer. This method often results in smaller surgical sites, less noticeable scarring, and faster healing compared to other skin cancer treatments. The Dermatology Institute of Victoria has an on-site Mohs laboratory and dedicated Mohs scientist, ensuring the procedure is performed with precision and efficiency.
Once the cancer is fully removed, our team will discuss the best method for wound closure, which may involve stitches, natural healing, or reconstructive techniques to achieve the best medical and cosmetic outcome.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery After Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Recovery after Mohs micrographic surgery is similar to any surgical excision. Mild to moderate pain, swelling, and bruising are common but typically subside within a few days. Increasing pain should be reported to exclude infection and postoperative bleeding.
As with all skin cancer treatments, a scar will remain after the surgical site has fully healed. However, Mohs surgery minimises scarring by precisely removing only cancerous tissue, preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Over six to twelve months, scars may naturally improve in appearance. For patients concerned about post-surgical scarring, dermatological treatments such as laser scar revision, skin needling, or topical therapies can further enhance healing and cosmetic outcomes.
Proper wound care is essential to promote healing and reduce complications. Patients should follow aftercare instructions, which may include keeping the area clean, applying prescribed ointments, and avoiding strenuous activities that could impact healing. If you have concerns about recovery, scarring, or long-term skin health, our dermatology team is here to guide you through the post-procedure process.
Scar Prevention and Revision
Mohs Micrographic Surgery will leave minimal scarring. However, as with all forms of surgery, a scar may remain after the skin cancer is removed and the surgical area has completely healed. We offer a range of treatments to address and minimise post-surgical scars, such as the use of medical tapes and silicone gels. To further address scars, options include:
Nano Fractional Radiofrequency
Subcision
Topical Therapies
Benefits of Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Highest success rates among skin cancer treatment methods.
Ensures precise removal of cancerous tissue while conserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Minimised risk of skin cancer recurrence.
Results in less noticeable scarring and improved cosmetic results.
Real-time pathology, giving the ability to analyse tissue immediately during surgery.
Effective for aggressive, recurrent, or complex skin cancers.
FAQs
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Patients are advised to arrive at the clinic well-rested and after having a normal breakfast. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours at the Dermatology Institute of Victoria, as the procedure and tissue analysis may take time.
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A small excision will be performed to remove the visible skin cancer. The removed tissue is immediately examined on-site under a microscope to determine if the edges are clear of cancer cells. This process is repeated layer by layer, until no cancerous cells remain.
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Once the area is confirmed to be cancer-free, the wound will be repaired. Post-operatively, you may experience some discomfort, including mild to moderate pain and bruising. Please follow the post-operative care instructions provided to ensure proper healing. Downtime will vary based on the location of the surgery and individual recovery times.