MOHS Surgery

Dr Adam Harris is a specialised Mohs micrographic surgeon at NSDL.

What is a Mohs surgeon?

A Mohs surgeon is a qualified dermatologist who has undertaken a minimum of 1 – 2 years approved Mohs micrographic surgery training or equivalent Mohs Fellowship program, and met the specific requirements. Mohs surgery is an advanced surgical technique used for the treatment of skin cancers. The procedure offers the highest chance of cure of any treatment available, while conserving healthy tissue around the skin cancer. The Australasian College of Dermatologists (ACD) maintains a list of doctors who have reached a defined standard of training in Mohs micrographic surgery and who take part in ongoing professional development. This ensures quality and safety for patients. The doctors on the ACD Approved Mohs Micrographic Surgeons register are both Fellows of the Australasian College of Dermatologists (FACD) and accredited Mohs surgeons.

What is Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery is a specialised procedure used to treat skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and occasionally melanoma. This is an advanced technique to ensure optimal results for our patients. Mohs surgery is renowned for its ability to completely remove skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, making it the gold standard for treating high-risk or cosmetically sensitive areas.

This technique involves removing cancerous tissue layer by layer and examining it under a microscope in real-time. By carefully mapping and analysing each layer, Mohs surgery ensures that all cancer cells are removed while sparing the maximum amount of healthy tissue.

Benefits of Mohs Surgery

  • Highest Cure Rate: Mohs surgery has the highest success rate of any skin cancer treatment, with cure rates of up to 99% for certain types of skin cancer.

  • Precise Tissue Removal: This technique removes only the cancerous tissue, preserving healthy surrounding skin and reducing scarring.

  • Ideal for Delicate Areas: Mohs surgery is particularly effective for skin cancers on the face, scalp, hands, feet, or other areas where maintaining function and appearance is critical.

  • Immediate Results: The microscopic examination during surgery ensures all cancerous cells are removed before the procedure is completed.

When is Mohs Surgery Recommended?

Mohs surgery is ideal for:

  • Skin cancers located in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas, such as the face, ears, or hands.

  • Recurrent skin cancers that have returned after previous treatment.

  • Aggressive or fast-growing skin cancers.

  • Skin cancers with indistinct or irregular borders.

The MOHS Surgery Process at NSDL

  • Consultation & Planning

    During your initial consultation, our dermatologist will assess your skin cancer and determine if Mohs surgery is the best option. They will refer to Dr Adam Harris if they feel MOHS is required.

  • Layer-by-Layer Removal

    The procedure begins with the removal of the visible portion of the cancer, followed by the excision of thin layers of tissue. Each layer is examined under a microscope to detect any remaining cancer cells.

  • Wound Reconstruction

    After confirming all cancer cells have been removed, we will discuss the best options for wound closure. In some cases, the wound may heal naturally, or we may use advanced reconstruction techniques for optimal cosmetic outcomes.

What to Expect After Mohs Surgery

Recovery from Mohs surgery is typically straightforward:

  • Minimal Downtime: Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days.

  • Follow-Up Care: We provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing.

  • Excellent Cosmetic Results: With its tissue-sparing approach, Mohs surgery minimises scarring, especially in highly visible areas.

Why Choose NSDL for Mohs Surgery?

At NSDL, we combine world-class expertise with compassionate care. Our dermatologists are leaders in skin cancer treatment, offering personalised care plans and advanced surgical techniques. Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for every patient.

All medical and cosmetic procedures involve some risks. The information provided here is for general educational purposes only. The results achieved for patients in before and after pictures are individual and may not be achievable for you specifically. For specific advice regarding your situation, please book an appointment at NSDL.