MOHS surgery, developed originally in the 1930s, is still one of the most effective treatments for the most common forms of skin cancer. This type of surgery can be performed by double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Phillip Garcia on patients who live in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, St. Augustine and the surrounding communities of North Florida at Garcia Facial Plastic Surgery.
What is MOHS Surgery?
MOHS surgery is the most effective surgical technique known to eradicate the two most common forms of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. With MOHS surgery, Dr. Garcia can precisely identify and remove an entire tumor leaving all surrounding healthy skin intact. This procedure offers the highest success rate —as high as 99 percent*, even in cases of skin cancers that have been previously treated.
*Cure rates vary between patients.
Click here to see more of the before and after photos of the procedure used for MOHS surgery.
What is Involved in MOHS Surgery?
MOHS surgery is a surgical procedure in which skin cancer is removed one layer at a time and examined under a microscope to detect malignant cells. The main advantage of this procedure is that it allows minimal tissue to be excised, leaving healthy tissue intact, while ensuring that all cancer cells are effectively removed.
How Long Does MOHS Surgery Take?
MOHS surgery involves removing each layer of cells one at a time, and the procedure typically takes two to four hours to complete. A good part of the procedure involves waiting time while Dr. Garcia examines the skin cells, so we recommend that you bring reading material to occupy your time while waiting.
Is MOHS Surgery Painful?
Dr. Garcia will inject a local anesthetic to numb the skin around the carcinoma in order to prevent any possibility of discomfort during the procedure.
What is the Recovery from MOHS Surgery Like?
About two to four weeks of recovery time may be required, depending on the extent of your surgery. Immediately after the procedure, the wound may develop a small red circle around it which is just slight inflammation and perfectly normal. If a red bumpy, itchy rash develops, please inform Dr. Garcia immediately as this may indicate an allergic reaction to either the tape or antibiotic ointment. If your surgery site is near the eyes, you may experience some mild to moderate swelling and occasional bruising in this delicate area. Applying ice packs for 15 minutes, every hour for 24 to 48 hours after surgery, may alleviate this. You may experience some redness and a sensation of tightness around the wound, but these symptoms will subside naturally. In cases where the surgical area affects nerves, patients may experience some numbness that may take up to a year or more to resolve itself. Once the wound has healed, annual follow-up visits will be required to monitor your condition.
Does MOHS Surgery Leave a Scar?
Although MOHS surgery typically does leave a scar, it is quite subtle. Once the incision has completely healed, if the scar is noticeable, you may consider reconstructive surgery in that area.
Does Insurance Cover MOHS Surgery?
Although health insurance carriers vary in their coverage, most providers will cover some or all of the costs involved in Mohs surgery. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to help you determine what costs your policy does cover, and answer any questions you may have.
What is the Cost of MOHS Surgery in Jacksonville, FL?
The costs of MOHS surgery varies from patient to patient, depending on the extent of the procedure. Our staff will help you determine whether your health insurance provider will cover part or all of the costs. Additionally, we can assist you with easy financing options to defray any non-covered expenses.
Garcia Facial Plastic Surgery is the leading facial plastic surgery center on the First Coast. As a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, specializing solely in cosmetic facial procedures, Dr. Phillip Garcia provides his North Florida patients with exceptional skills and results that last. For more information on MOHS surgery or to schedule a consultation at one of our five convenient locations in Jacksonville (Town Center), Avondale, Julington Creek, Fleming Island or Palm Coast, please contact us today.
