Traditionally surgeries to treat skin cancer involved removing both the visible cancer and a small amount of healthy tissue at the same time. Mohs Micrographic Surgery offers a precise alternative to such standard procedures. MMS also has a high potential cure rate of up to 99 percent, according to the American College of Mohs Surgery.
The California Skin & Laser Center team may suggest MMS if:
- There has been a history of recurrence after previous treatment
- There is a high risk of recurrence
- The cancer is aggressive or large
- Borders are hard to define, making removal difficult
- The cancer is located on or near the eyes, ears, nose, hairline, hands, feet and other areas where it’s necessary to preserve healthy tissue
This type of procedure allows surgeons to progressively remove one layer of cancer-containing skin at a time as needed. Examining each layer of tissue under the microscope and removing tissue until there are no signs of cancer, aids the surgical staff in verifying that all cancerous cells have been eradicated.
The Mohs technique is beneficial as:
- There is an increased chance of a cure
- The need for additional treatments, surgeries may be diminished
- Damage to surrounding healthy tissue is minimized
- It may be performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthetic
MMS is considered a technically challenging procedure. For this reason, the Mayo Clinic emphasizes the importance of selecting a surgeon who has specialized Mohs surgical training.
Dr. Gerald Bock trained with Dr. Frederic E. Mohs during his residency. The late general surgeon developed the technique in the 1930s while working at the University of Wisconsin.
The pioneering surgeon’s chief technician supervised the organization of Dr. Bock’s lab. Rest assured California Skin & Laser Center professionals have unique access to expertise and a depth of experience to distinguish the practice from other dermatologists in the Stockton, Lodi, and Elk Grove, CA area.
MMS is NOT a standard part of dermatological residency, and not every dermatologist in Stockton, Lodi, or Elk Grove has completed training to be a specialized Mohs Micrographic Surgeon. Dr. Bock has this training and a wealth of experience in the technique. When you call Dr. Bock and his staff at 209-751-4292 the highest standard of care will be available to reduce your risk of complications and errors during surgery.
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