How Mohs Surgery Minimizes Scarring in Skin Cancer Treatment

Skin cancer is a common but highly curable form of cancer when caught and treated early. If you have been diagnosed with this illness, getting Mohs Surgery in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Trinidad, CO, at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Center may be the best solution. Dr. Brett Matheson and Dr. Christopher Sartori are your dermatology experts and have performed this skin cancer procedure on many patients.

What Is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is a highly specialized technique to remove certain forms of skin cancer. Unlike other procedures, this one involves using a microscope in cohesion with deep tissue removal. Your dermatologist meticulously removes layers of cancerous tissue and examines each under the microscope until no visible signs of cancer cells remain. Due to such intricate procedures, this procedure has a 95% to 99% success rate, according to the American Society For Mohs Surgery.

Why Is It So Effective at Reducing Scarring?

The meticulous layer-by-layer removal is precise and focuses on removing cancerous tissue while keeping healthy tissue intact. Your doctor immediately examines each layer of removed tissue and doesn’t stop until all the cancer is gone. Reducing the likelihood of leaving behind cancerous tissues reduces the need for follow-up surgery. Not removing healthy tissue means less reconstruction and smaller scarring. Other procedures, such as excision, often involve removing a larger amount of tissue that can include healthy patches. 

After your dermatologist completes your Mohs Surgery in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Trinidad, CO, he uses reconstructive techniques to close the wound. Direct closure, local flaps, or skin graphs improve skin healing. 

You Also Play a Role in Scar Reduction

After your dermatologist seals up your wound, you will receive instructions for post-operative care. Listen to your skin doctor's advice, which usually includes keeping your wound clean and dry while avoiding sun exposure. Therefore, you should wear long sleeves (or hats if the surgery is on the face or neck) and avoid the sun as much as possible. Your skin doctor also recommends topical treatments to help your skin heal faster and reduce scarring. Drinking water and eating a healthy diet that includes skin-healthy nutrients like Vitamin C are essential for overall healing and giving your skin the boost it needs.

Dr. Matheson and Dr. Sartori are experts at conducting Mohs Surgery in Colorado Springs, Pueblo & Trinidad, CO. Get started on healing from skin cancer by contacting Skin Cancer & Dermatology Center for an appointment at the following numbers:

Please call the Colorado Springs, CO, office at 719-574-0310, the Pueblo, CO, office at 719-564-5544, and the Trinidad, CO, location at 800-290-2478 today.