A specialised approach for eliminating skin cancer
Professor Ali is an expert in Mohs micrographic surgery for treatment of high risk skin cancers and able to offer Mohs surgery to patients where appropriate. Professor Ali performs the Mohs surgery himself.
What is Mohs micrographic surgery?
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a specialised and highly effective technique used to remove skin cancer. It involves removing thin layers of cancerous tissue one layer at a time and examining them under a microscope until all cancer cells are eradicated, while preserving healthy tissue to the greatest extent possible. This meticulous process ensures a high cure rate and minimal damage to surrounding healthy skin.
What types of skin cancer can be treated with Mohs micrographic surgery?
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is mainly used to treat two common types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). These two types of skin cancer account for the majority of non-melanoma skin cancers.
Before surgery, a consultation is needed to assess the lesion and see if Mohs micrographic surgery is the most appropriate option in your case. A biopsy is normally needed before proceeding with Mohs micrographic surgery. If this has been done in the NHS/by another dermatologist, please bring the report with you to the consultation.
Advantages of Mohs surgery
Highest Cure Rate
Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate (99%) compared to other skin cancer treatments, as it ensures complete removal of the cancerous cells.
Tissue Preservation
By precisely targeting and removing only the affected areas, Mohs surgery aims to preserve the maximum amount of healthy tissue, resulting in smaller scars and better cosmetic outcomes.
Minimized Recurrence
By examining tissue layers during the procedure, the Mohs surgeon can detect and remove even the most challenging and hard-to-spot cancer cells, reducing the chances of recurrence.
Same-day Procedure
Mohs surgery and the repair of the defect are usually done on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home on the same day. You will be awake during the procedure and can eat and drink normally throughout the day.
What does Mohs surgery involve?
- Local Anaesthesia: Before starting the procedure, local anesthesia is injected to numb the area being treated.
- Tissue Removal and Analysis: Professor Ali will remove the visible tumor and a thin layer of surrounding tissue. The tissue is then processed and examined under a microscope in an on-site laboratory.
- Mapping and Repeating: If cancer cells are detected in the examined tissue, the process is repeated, targeting specific areas where cancer cells remain until the site is cancer-free.
- Closure: Once the tumour has been completely removed, Professor Ali will discuss with you the options for wound closure, considering factors such as size, location, and cosmetic outcomes. Methods of wound closure include side-to-side closure of the wound with stitches, a local skin flap, a skin graft or leaving the wound to heal by itself (secondary intention).
Alternatives to Mohs surgery
While Mohs surgery is often the recommended treatment for high risk basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, there may be alternative options to consider, depending on the type, size, and location of the cancer. These alternatives include standard excisional surgery, topical medications, radiation therapy, and photodynamic therapy. Professor Ali will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment.
Post-Operative Recovery
Following Mohs surgery, you can typically expect the following
- Wound Care: Professor Ali will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the surgical site, including cleaning and dressing changes
- Temporary Discomfort: Mild pain and swelling are common, but these can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications
- Healing Time: The duration of the healing process varies depending on the size and location of the wound. While smaller wounds may heal relatively quickly (in 1-2 weeks), larger or more complex wounds may take several weeks.
- Exercise: In most cases, Professor Ali would recommend avoiding intensive exercise for at least two weeks following the surgery.
Where can I find more information?
You can book a consultation with Professor Ali to discuss Mohs micrographic surgery, whether it would be appropriate in your case and what the procedure would involve.
More information about Mohs micrographic surgery is available on the British Association of Dermatologists website: www.bad.org.uk/pils/mohs-micrographic-surgery.