Which specialist performs Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery removes a skin cancer in carefully planned stages. After each stage, the surgeon examines the removed tissue under a microscope to check the edges before deciding whether more tissue needs removal. This approach can help the team address visible cancer while considering the amount of healthy tissue removed, especially in anatomically sensitive areas.

The dermatologic surgeon also plans how the wound will heal or be repaired. You should receive an explanation of the diagnosis, the reason Mohs is being considered, possible reconstruction, wound care and the expected follow-up.

Bring the biopsy report, referral details, medicine list and information about allergies, bleeding problems, implanted devices and previous skin surgery. Tell the team if you take medicines that affect clotting; do not stop prescribed medicine unless the treating clinician gives you a plan.

Ask where the procedure will occur, whether a repair will be done the same day, how long you may be at the clinic, and how to contact the team after discharge. Arrange transport if the location or repair makes driving impractical, and follow the wound-care instructions closely.

After surgery, contact the team for bleeding that continues despite firm pressure, increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever, worsening pain or wound edges that separate. Seek urgent care for uncontrolled bleeding, severe weakness, chest pain or breathing difficulty.

Ask: Why is Mohs recommended for this lesion? How will tissue be checked during surgery? What repair options may be needed? Which medicines should I continue? How should I dress the wound, and what symptoms require urgent review?