At Dermatology Associates of West Texas, our board-certified and fellowship-trained dermatologists perform Mohs micrographic surgery, the gold standard for treating common skin cancers in Lubbock and Denver City, TX.
Understanding Mohs Surgery
This specialized technique allows for highly precise skin cancer removal. It's a meticulous process in which our specially-trained surgeons remove cancerous tissue layer by layer.
Mohs can help ensure that your surgeon can remove all cancerous tissue while sparing healthy skin around it. It's something not possible with traditional excision techniques. Mohs surgery can also minimize scarring and help ensure an optimal cosmetic outcome. It offers cure rates of up to 99% for certain skin cancers.
Types of Skin Cancer Mohs Surgery Treats
Mohs micrographic surgery removes skin cancers with extreme precision, making it especially valuable for certain types and locations of tumors. It's most commonly recommended for:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most frequently diagnosed skin cancer, often appearing as a shiny bump, scab-like sore, or pink patch that doesn’t heal. Because BCC tends to spread beneath the surface, Mohs surgery ensures complete removal.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):Â Usually develops as a thickened, crusted, or scaly growth, particularly in areas exposed to the sun. Mohs surgery is ideal for SCC because it allows careful tracking of irregular or invasive margins.
- Recurrent or Aggressive Cancers: Tumors that have grown back after prior treatment or show aggressive features may benefit from Mohs’ layer-by-layer precision.
What Happens During a Mohs Surgery Procedure
Mohs surgery is performed in several precise stages to ensure all cancerous tissue is removed while preserving healthy skin.
- Anesthesia:Â Your surgeon administers local anesthetic to keep you comfortable throughout the process.
- Tissue Removal: Your surgeon removes the visible part of the tumor, along with a very thin surrounding layer.
- Microscopic Analysis:Â Then, your surgeon views the removed tissue under a high-powered microscope to map out the location of any remaining cancer cells.
- Targeted Removal (if needed): The next "round" involves precise removal of another layer of tissue from the areas still showing cancerous cells. Then, your surgeon again examines the tissue under the microscope. The process continues until all cancerous cells are gone.
- Wound Repair:Â After fully eliminating the cancerous cells, your surgeon reconstructs the site using specialized closure or grafting techniques designed for natural cosmetic healing.
The Cosmetic Benefits of Tissue-Sparing Techniques
With standard excision, both the tumor and extra tissue around the tumor are removed as a precaution. But, in delicate areas with thinner skin, that approach can make reconstruction difficult.
Because Mohs surgery conserves the maximum amount of healthy skin, it's particularly beneficial for highly visible areas like the face, where both appearance and function matter. Smaller wounds mean faster healing, minimal scarring, and more natural-looking results.
Why Choose Us for Mohs Surgery
Led by practice founder, Dr. Brent Paulger, and a team of highly trained dermatology specialists, Dermatology Associates of West Texas has provided expert, patient-centered care since 1997.
With two offices in Lubbock and one in Denver City, TX, our team makes high-quality dermatological care accessible, convenient, and easy.
Our fellowship-trained and board-certified dermatologists are experts in Mohs micrographic surgery and post-surgical reconstruction. Not all surgeons can perform Mohs procedures: It requires fellowship training that lasts at least one or two years. Our surgeons have this unique high-level training, making us one of a select few practices in the area that offers this specialized care.
Our team prioritizes safety, precision, and the best possible cosmetic outcomes for every patient.
Mohs Surgery Consultations in Lubbock or Denver City
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or noticed a suspicious lesion, early treatment is key. Call 806-797-1202 to book a consultation at Dermatology Associates of West Texas in Lubbock or Denver City today.
