Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise and highly effective treatment for various types of skin cancers. The California Skin & Laser Center team offers this innovative procedure in our offices in Stockton, Lodi, and Elk Grove, California. Our Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Gerald Bock, has been treating patients for more than 40 years. In addition to his exceptional skills in general and cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Bock is a trained Mohs micrographic surgeon. Patients are in excellent hands with Dr. Bock.
The Mohs surgical technique was developed by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs in the 1930s. During his Mohs residency, Dr. Bock had the distinct privilege of training under Dr. Mohs. The organization of Dr. Bock’s laboratory was supervised by Dr. Mohs’ chief technician. Dr. Bock has the training and expertise to examine a tumor and precisely remove it with this technique, while leaving surrounding healthy tissue intact.
The Mohs procedure involves removing skin cancer one layer at a time. The tissue and its surgical margins are examined under a microscope. This process continues until the margins are clear, meaning only cancer-free tissue around the tumor remains. Mohs has up to a 99 percent potential cure rate – the highest of all treatments for skin cancer.
The benefits of Mohs surgery include:
- Complete cancer removal during surgery, virtually eliminating the chance of its return.
- Healthy tissue surrounding the tumor is left unharmed.
- Optimal cosmetic results.
Mohs micrographic surgery is typically recommended if there has been a history of recurrence after previous treatment; the cancer is aggressive or larger; and the borders are hard to define. If cancer is located on or near the hairline, eyes, ears, nose, hands, and feet, Mohs surgery may be the most favorable treatment.
At California Skin & Laser Center, we believe in skin cancer prevention. We offer screenings to help identify any signs of cancer in its earliest stages. We recommend skin cancer screenings at least annually. In addition, it is important to perform self-examinations at home at least monthly to identify any potential concerns.
Our team cares about your overall health and well-being. If you need to schedule a skin cancer screening, please call 209-751-4292.
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