Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer Treatment

Benefits of Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer

Choosing this specialized approach offers several clinical advantages for patients. This technique is often recommended because it provides:

• The highest reported cure rate for both new and recurring skin cancers
• Maximum preservation of healthy tissue, which is vital for functional areas
• Smaller surgical wounds, which often lead to better cosmetic results
• A single-day outpatient experience where the lab work is completed on-site

Meet Your Specialized Mohs Surgeon: Dr. Laura Archibald

Dr. Laura Archibald is double board-certified in Mohs surgery and dermatology. She completed prestigious fellowship training in Mohs surgery and reconstructive surgery. Her background includes intensive training in cutaneous oncology, allowing her to manage complex cases with technical proficiency. She was trained extensively in plastic surgery techniques that minimize the appearance of scars. Dr. Archibald utilizes her surgical expertise to provide personalized and comprehensive care from the initial diagnosis through the final reconstruction.

Ideal Candidates for the Mohs Technique

This procedure is typically preferred for basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. You may be a candidate for this surgery if:

• The skin cancer is located on the face, scalp, neck, hands, legs, or feet
• The tumor has recurred after previous treatment
• The borders of the skin cancer are difficult to define
• The cancer is growing rapidly or is located near critical structures

The Mohs Procedure and Reconstruction Process

The process begins with local anesthesia to maintain patient comfort throughout the visit. Once the area is numb, Dr. Archibald removes the visible tumor along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue. The patient then waits in the office while the tissue is processed and mapped to identify any remaining cancer cells. This advanced form of surgical dermatology allows for immediate verification of clear margins.

If there is still cancer at the margin, another layer is taken only from the specific area where cancer remains. Once margins are clear, reconstructive surgery is performed to repair the site, often during the same visit.

Mohs Recovery and Aftercare

Following Mohs skin cancer surgery in Wellesley, patients receive specific instructions to support the natural healing process and minimize the appearance of scars. Patients should keep the initial pressure bandage in place for the first 24 to 48 hours to protect the site. Daily wound care involves cleaning the area gently with mild soap and applying a layer of ointment to maintain a moist healing environment.

It is important to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for one to two weeks because these activities can put tension on the sutures. Protecting the healing site from sun exposure is also important to minimize discoloration of the new tissue. Most individuals return to their daily routines shortly after the procedure, although we provide guidance on when it is safe to resume all normal physical activities.