Skin Cancer Solutions: Exploring the Effectiveness of Mohs Surgery

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. Fortunately, advancements in dermatologic care have made treatment more precise and effective than ever before. One of the most successful treatment options available today is Mohs micrographic surgery.

At Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax in Fairfax, Virginia, our dermatology team provides expert evaluation and treatment for skin cancer, including highly effective Mohs surgery for eligible patients.

What Is Mohs Surgery?

Mohs surgery is a specialized, minimally invasive procedure used to treat certain types of skin cancer. Unlike traditional surgical excision, Mohs surgery removes cancer layer by layer while immediately examining each layer under a microscope.

This step-by-step process continues until no cancer cells remain.

Why This Matters:

• ✔️ Removes only cancerous tissue

• ✔️ Preserves as much healthy skin as possible

• ✔️ Offers the highest cure rate available

Because of its precision, Mohs surgery is often recommended for skin cancers located on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, nose, eyelids, lips, ears, scalp, and hands.

What Types of Skin Cancer Does Mohs Surgery Treat?

Mohs surgery is most commonly used to treat:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• Certain early melanomas (in specific cases)

• Recurrent skin cancers

• Aggressive or large tumors

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer in Fairfax, VA, our dermatology team can determine whether Mohs surgery is the best treatment option for your specific case.

Why Mohs Surgery Is So Effective

Mohs surgery has the highest cure rate of any skin cancer treatment:

• Up to 99% cure rate for new basal cell carcinomas

• Up to 94–97% cure rate for recurrent tumors

The Key Benefits:

1. Exceptional Precision

Each tissue layer is examined during the procedure, ensuring no cancer cells are left behind.

2. Tissue Preservation

Because only affected tissue is removed, patients experience smaller scars and better cosmetic outcomes — especially important for facial areas.

3. Same-Day Results

The cancer is removed and confirmed clear during the same visit.

4. Lower Recurrence Rates

The meticulous approach significantly reduces the likelihood that the cancer will return.

What to Expect During Mohs Surgery

Patients at Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax can expect:

1. Local anesthesia to numb the treatment area

2. Removal of a thin layer of tissue

3. Immediate microscopic examination

4. Repeat steps if cancer cells remain

5. Reconstruction of the area once clear margins are confirmed

The process may take several hours, but it allows for complete cancer removal in one visit.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Mohs Surgery?

You may be a candidate if you have:

• Skin cancer on the face, neck, scalp, ears, or hands

• A large or aggressive tumor

• Recurrent skin cancer

• Ill-defined tumor borders

A consultation with our Fairfax dermatology team will help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes. Warning signs of skin cancer include:

• A sore that doesn’t heal

• A new or changing mole

• A pearly or translucent bump

• A red, scaly patch

• A lesion that bleeds or crusts

If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, schedule an evaluation promptly.

Skin Cancer Treatment in Fairfax, Virginia

At Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, we are committed to providing advanced, compassionate dermatologic care. Our team offers comprehensive skin cancer screenings, biopsies, and treatment options — including Mohs surgery when appropriate.

Protecting your skin starts with regular exams and early intervention.

Schedule a Skin Cancer Consultation Today

If you have concerns about a suspicious lesion or have been diagnosed with skin cancer, our team is here to help.