Mohs surgery is commonly performed to treat non-melanoma skin cancers (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and many others). Additionally, our laboratory utilizes special immunohistochemical stains to treat thin melanomas as well. Mohs surgery is an outpatient procedure that is performed under local anesthesia; therefore, the risks associated with prolonged general anesthesia are avoided. Before [...]
The American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) offers fellowship training programs that are more rigorous and thorough than other Mohs programs. ACMS fellows experience extensive, hands-on training from highly qualified instructors. In choosing a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, you will receive the highest standard of quality and expertise. Mohs micrographic surgery has set the standard for [...]
Yes. The most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. Often these skin cancers are very subtle and appear like a small pimple that will not heal and will often bleed. The second most common skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. This type usually appears as a thickened, scaly plaque or nodule. Melanoma [...]
Fortunately, the two most common types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are rarely life threatening. As a general rule, basal cell carcinoma does not spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Compared to basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma has an increased risk to spread to [...]
Most commonly Mohs surgery is used to treat nonmelanoma skin cancers, but it can also be used to treat thin, “in situ,” melanomas utilizing special immunostains (or antibody-based staining). Our surgical unit specializes in the utilization of these immunostains and is proud to introduce these to the Knoxville area.
The size of the scar depends on the size of the tumor, and it can be difficult to predict the exact size of the tumor prior to surgery.
Most patients will require stitches. Please keep in mind that our goal is the best long term cosmetic result. This may initially require extensive suturing. In addition to wound size and location, the surgeon considers other factors in determining how your wound will be handled. The primary options are as follows: Direct closure of the [...]
No. The surgery is well tolerated with local anesthesia. Because the surgery may be time-consuming, the risk of prolonged general anesthesia is avoided.
The length of surgery depends on the extent of the tumor and can last half a day or longer. Much of the time is spent waiting for the tissue to be processed. Bring reading materials, needlework, etc., to help pass the time. Also, you may want to bring a snack or lunch with you on [...]
It is often helpful to bring someone with you on the day of surgery. Depending on the size and location of your tumor, driving can sometimes be a challenge after surgery. Additionally, if someone other than the patient will be performing post-op wound care, it is best to have this person present so that we [...]
