Mohs Surgery in Wantagh Serving Massapequa, Seaford, & Merrick, NY
Dr. David Arbesfeld is a Board Certified Mohs surgeon located in Wantagh and serving Massapequa, Seaford, and Merrick, NY, we are committed to providing effective and innovative treatments for skin cancer. One of the most advanced techniques we offer is Mohs micrographic surgery, a specialized procedure designed for the precise removal of skin cancer. Dr. David Arbesfeld and our experienced team are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
What is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized, highly effective technique for the removal of skin cancer. The procedure was developed in the 1930s by Dr. Frederic Mohs at the university of Wisconsin and is now practiced throughput the world. Mohs surgery differs from other skin cancer treatments in that it permits the immediate and complete microscopic examination of the removed cancerous tissue, so that all "roots" and extensions of the cancer can be eliminated. Due to the methodical manner in which tissue is removed and examined. Mohs surgery has been recognized as the skin cancer treatment with the highest reported cure rate.
The Mohs Surgery Procedure
The Mohs surgery procedure involves several key steps. First, the area of skin containing the cancer is numbed with a local anesthetic. Dr. Arbesfeld then carefully removes a thin layer of skin, which is immediately sent to the lab for microscopic examination. While you wait, the tissue is analyzed to determine if any cancerous cells remain.
If cancerous cells are detected, additional layers of skin are removed and examined until the margins are clear of cancer. This methodical approach allows for the complete removal of cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Due to its precision and thoroughness, Mohs surgery has been recognized as the skin cancer treatment with the highest reported cure rate.
Benefits of Mohs Surgery
One of the primary benefits of Mohs surgery is its high cure rate, which is particularly important for patients with non-melanoma skin cancers. Additionally, because the procedure is performed in stages, it minimizes the amount of healthy tissue removed, leading to better cosmetic outcomes. Patients often experience less scarring and a quicker recovery compared to other surgical methods. Furthermore, Mohs surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day. The local anesthesia used during the procedure ensures that patients remain comfortable throughout the process.
Recovery typically involves mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort, with complete healing taking a few weeks.