mohs Surgery

We are pleased to offer onsite Mohs Micrographic Surgery for skin cancer at our office. Mohs surgeries are performed by Dr. Shayan Cheraghlou, MD, FAAD. Dr. Cheraghlou is a double board-certified Mohs surgeon, medical and cosmetic dermatologist, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Learn more about Dr. Cheraghlou here! (link to bio page)

Mohs surgery is considered the most effective technique for treating many basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), the two most common types of skin cancer. The surgical technique has a 99% success rate in curing skin cancers that have not previously been treated – and 94% for a skin cancer that has recurred after previous treatment. 

Sometimes called Mohs micrographic surgery, the procedure is done in stages, all in one visit, while the patient waits between each stage. After removing a layer of tissue, Dr. Cheraghlou examines it under a microscope in our on-site lab. If any cancer cells remain, she knows the exact area where they are and removes another layer of tissue from that precise location, while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. Dr. Cheraghlou will repeat this process until no cancer cells remain.

Once the site is clear of all cancer cells, the wound may be left open to heal or Dr. Cheraghlou may close it with stitches. This depends on its size and location. In some cases, a wound may need reconstruction with a skin flap, where neighboring tissue is moved into the wound, or possibly a skin graft. While unlikely, there are some cases when Dr. Cheraghlou may coordinate the repair of your wound with another specialist such as a plastic surgeon, oculoplastic surgeon or hand surgeon. 

If you are coming in for Mohs at our office, click the button below to review pre and post care instructions with more details about what to expect at your visit.