Mohs Surgery
Latham Dermatology
Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Dermatology located in Latham, NY
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, choosing the right treatment is one of the most important decisions you can make. At Latham Dermatology , our board-certified dermatologists offer Mohs micrographic surgery—the most advanced, effective technique for removing skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Mohs Surgery Q & A
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, choosing the right treatment is one of the most important decisions you can make. At Latham Dermatology , our board-certified dermatologists offer Mohs micrographic surgery—the most advanced, effective technique for removing skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a highly specialized, precise surgical procedure used to treat certain types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.. During the procedure, thin layers of cancerous skin are removed and examined under a microscope one layer at a time. This process continues until no cancer cells remain.
The result? The highest cure rate of any skin cancer treatment—up to 99%—and minimal scarring.
Why Choose Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery offers unique benefits that make it the gold standard for treating skin cancer, especially on visible or delicate areas such as the face, ears, neck, or hands.
Benefits of Mohs surgery include:
- Maximum tissue preservation:Only cancerous tissue is removed, leaving healthy skin intact.
- Immediate results:Each layer is examined on-site during the procedure, so you’ll know your results before leaving.
- Highest cure rate:Mohs surgery is the most effective treatment available for common skin cancers.
- Minimized scarring:The precise nature of the technique helps achieve better cosmetic outcomes.
When Is Mohs Surgery Recommended?
Your dermatologist may recommend Mohs surgery if your skin cancer:
- Is located in a cosmetically or functionally important area (like the nose, eyelids, lips, or ears)
- Has recurred after previous treatment
- Has indistinct borders or is growing aggressively
- Requires the highest possible cure rate
What to Expect During Mohs Surgery
At Latham Dermatology, your comfort and safety are our top priorities.
- Local anesthesia is used to numb the area.
- The visible cancer is removed, and a thin layer of surrounding skin is carefully excised.
- The tissue is immediately processed and examined under a microscope by your Mohs surgeon.
- If cancer cells are still present, the surgeon removes another thin layer precisely where cancer remains.
- This process repeats until all margins are clear.
- The wound is then repaired for the best possible cosmetic result.
Most patients can return home the same day, with minimal downtime.
Expert Skin Cancer Treatment in Latham, NY
At Latham Dermatology , our dermatologists are extensively trained in skin cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment, including advanced Mohs micrographic surgery. We combine medical expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and compassionate care to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a form of skin cancer, or if you’ve noticed a new or changing lesion, our team is here to help.








