Mohs Surgery

What Is Mohs Surgery and How Does It Work?

Mohs surgery is a precise technique for removing basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. During treatment, your dermatologist removes thin layers of cancerous tissue and examines each layer under a microscope in real time. Because we analyze tissue immediately, we stop only when no cancer cells remain.

As a result, patients seeking treatment with Mohs surgery receive thorough removal with maximum tissue preservation. This approach works especially well for cancers on the face, ears, scalp, and other visible areas.

Why Is Mohs Surgery Recommended for Skin Cancer Treatment in Washington, DC?

First, Mohs surgery offers cure rates up to 99% for certain skin cancers. In addition, it minimizes scarring and reduces recurrence risk. Therefore, many patients choose it when they want effective skin cancer treatment in Washington, DC, with cosmetic precision.

At 19th Street Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists focus on both complete cancer removal and optimal healing. We combine medical expertise with careful surgical technique.

Who Is a Candidate for Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery often treats:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Recurrent skin cancers
• Cancers in high-risk or visible areas

If you need skin cancer treatment in Washington, DC, we evaluate your diagnosis, biopsy results, and overall health before recommending a plan.

What Should You Expect on the Day of Mohs Surgery?

On the day of your procedure, plan to spend several hours in our office. Although the surgical removal itself is brief, Mohs surgery involves stages. First, we numb the treatment area with local anesthesia. Then we remove a thin layer of tissue and examine it under a microscope on-site.

While our team analyzes the tissue, you relax comfortably in a waiting area. If cancer cells remain, we remove another precise layer. We repeat this process until no cancer cells appear.

Once we clear the cancer, we discuss repair options. In many cases, we close the area the same day. You leave with detailed instructions and direct access to our team if questions arise.

What Should You Expect During Recovery?

Most patients return to normal activity quickly. Healing time depends on the size and location of the treatment area. However, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to support smooth recovery and strong cosmetic results.

Take the Next Step With Mohs Surgery at 19th Street Dermatology

You do not have to navigate skin cancer alone. 19th Street Dermatology provides expert treatment, including advanced Mohs surgery. Located in the Golden Triangle near Dupont Circle and led by Sarika Snell, MD, FAAD, our team provides comprehensive medical and cosmetic dermatology. We treat patients of all ages, with advanced expertise in caring for skin of color. We combine evidence-based medicine with the latest aesthetic technology to help you look and feel your best. Visit our website or call 202-955-6995 to schedule your appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mohs surgery painful?

We use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure.

How long does Mohs surgery take?

Most procedures take anywhere from a few to several hours because we examine tissue on-site between stages.

Does insurance cover Mohs surgery?

Most insurance plans cover medically necessary skin cancer treatment, including Mohs surgery.

Will I have a scar after Mohs surgery?

All surgery creates some scarring. However, Mohs surgery preserves as much healthy tissue as possible.

Is Mohs surgery better than standard excision?

For many high-risk or facial cancers, Mohs surgery offers higher cure rates and greater tissue preservation.