Skin cancer is getting a lot of press these days, and with good reason. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, with more than 3.5 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer being diagnosed each year. Additionally, approximately 77,000 cases of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, are diagnosed annually.
Patients are becoming much more careful about protecting their skin by avoiding the sun during peak hours, wearing a hat and sunglasses, covering up with clothing, and liberally applying sunscreen. However, even with extreme care, skin cancer can happen to anyone of any gender or ethnicity.
If you have discovered a change in mole, or if your dermatologist has identified areas of skin cancer, know that there is a precise surgical method being used to treat it, called Mohs Surgery. Mohs Surgery is a treatment method where the layers of skin containing cancer are removed, one-by-one, until the cancer is completely removed and the remaining tissue is cancer free.
Dr. Neal has been using this method to treat patients and finds it an excellent way to remove the skin cancer cells without causing too much damage to the surrounding tissue. During the surgery, he will be able to confirm that all cancer cells have been removed, giving it a 99% success rate. As a benefit, this surgery is done as an outpatient procedure and only requires local anesthesia.
If Mohs Surgery has been recommended to you, rest easy, knowing that you’re in good hands with our expert physician. He has extensive training received during his fellowship at the university of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Prior to the surgery you should be sure to discuss with the doctor any medications or supplements that you’re taking. He may advise you to stop taking certain medications. Additionally, you will want to clear your schedule for the entire day. For some people the procedure takes just a short time; however, for others, with many cells to remove, it can take an extended amount of time. Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and bring a book or magazine to help you pass the time.
Once you arrive for your procedure, you will be in the excellent hands of Dr. Neal and his team. The entire staff will treat you with kindness and respect, and will ensure that you’re comfortable and at ease. The surgery will be done using a local anesthetic so you won’t feel a thing. When the procedure is complete, we’ll tell you how to care for the wound and discuss follow up treatment plans.
For further information on Mohs Surgery, call 571-431-6175.
