What should you know about Mohs surgery for malignant melanoma?

Malignant melanoma is another name for melanoma, a cancer arising from pigment-producing cells. Mohs surgery removes tissue in mapped stages and checks the edges during the operation. It may be discussed when preserving nearby healthy tissue matters, but it does not by itself answer every staging question. The pathology report and clinical examination remain central to deciding whether more local surgery or additional tests are needed.

A melanoma specialist may discuss [Skin Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-cancer-surgery/), [Tumour Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/tumour-removal-surgery/) or [Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/sentinel-lymph-node-biopsy/) depending on the case.

Request a clear explanation of the biopsy diagnosis, measured depth and margin status. Before treatment, tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, allergies, prior scars and conditions that affect healing. Ask who will perform the surgery, how the defect will be repaired, and what review is planned. If the melanoma needs treatment beyond the skin, ask how [Immunotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/immunotherapy/) fits into the discussion.

Have a changing, bleeding or non-healing pigmented lesion assessed without delay. After treatment, call promptly for persistent bleeding, spreading redness, foul drainage, fever, escalating pain, sudden swelling or separation of the wound. New firm lumps near the scar or in a nearby lymph-node area should also be reported.

What makes Mohs appropriate here? What does the pathology say about depth and subtype? Do I need a sentinel lymph node discussion? What signs of wound infection should I watch for? How often will my skin be checked?