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Mohs Skin Cancer
Surgery (frozen section)
Arizona has the unenviable distinction
of being the skin cancer capital of the United States. Many
people here have had excessive sun exposure (UV damage), often
leading to skin cancer. Although large skin cancers are readily
visible on the skin surface, to remove them completely requires
microscopic examination to visualize the cancer at a cellular
level. In Mohs surgery, or frozen section removal, this microscopic
examination is performed immediately, while you wait in the
office. The advantage of this technique is that it provides
the best chance of removing the skin cancer completely, while
minimizing the amount of normal skin removed. After the skin
cancer is completely removed, the wound is carefully reconstructed
to preserve as much normal function as possible and to achieve
a good cosmetic result. Before and
after Mohs surgery photos
Three Main Types
of Skin Cancers
Basal cell carcinoma:
This is the most common skin cancer and is typically found
on sun exposed areas such as the face, ears, and arms. It
is often flesh-toned to reddish in color and can be a pearly,
nodular bump or a raw, ulcerated sore. Fortunately, it grows
slowly, but if left untreated, it can cause extensive local
destruction of tissue.
Squamous cell:
This may appear as a red bump or non-healing sore in sun exposed
areas. Compared to basal cell carcinoma, it is more aggressive
in growth and has more potential to spread internally to other
organs.
Melanoma:
This is the least common, but most aggressive, skin cancer.
If caught early, the cure rate is excellent, but in more advanced
stages it is often fatal. It usually appears as a red to black
spot or bump, which may be a new lesion or a change in an
existing mole. Remember the ABCDs of abnormal moles: Asymmetry;
Border which is notched, irregular, or blurry; Color which
is dark, uneven, or multicolored; and Diameter greater than
6 mm, or about the size of a pencil eraser. Melanoma may be
completely flat and smooth, or raised.
Additional Information
It is thought that much of the UV damage we get occurs by
the time we are 18 years old. However, further damage can
be prevented by using a sunblock containing zinc oxide daily,
wearing sun protective clothing and a hat, and avoiding sun
exposure from 10 am to 4 pm. In addition to knowing the signs
of skin cancer, one should also have a skin exam performed
by a dermatologist annually.
About Faces Cosmetic Surgery is located
in Tucson, Arizona. Our facility is renowned for its state
of the art cosmetic
surgery and reconstructive
surgery procedures. For more information or to schedule
a consultation, please contact us.
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