16
Oct
What to Expect During and After Mohs Surgery
Skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) develop due to abnormal growth of skin cells. Often, skin cancer occurs after exposure to radiation from the sun. Without the right treatment, skin cancer can threaten your health. However, you should know that both BCC and SCC respond well to treatment with Mohs micrographic surgery.
At Apex Dermatology, board-certified Dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, FASDS, provides this procedure to patients from Westlake Village, California. Dr. Harp is supported by the Apex Dermatology team: Dr. Aria Vazirnia, Dr. Zoë Indigo Smith, Sherri Anderson PA-C, Mary Hanna BC-NP, Alex Woodruff PA-C, Lani Keene LE, and Riley McCarthy RN.
Dr. Harp has extensive and specialized experience with the Mohs surgery procedure. Here’s what she wants you to know about what to expect during and after your surgery for skin cancer removal.
How Mohs surgery removes skin cancers
Telltale signs of BCC or SCC often appear on your face, neck, arms, and sometimes even your legs. Skin cancer can affect any part of your body. But, since sun exposure plays a significant role in cancer development, areas of your body regularly exposed to sunlight are most at risk.
After the Apex Dermatology team diagnoses your skin cancer, it’s time to look at treatment options. Removing areas of skin cancer prevents spreading and further cancerous growth. Mohs surgery treatment is the gold standard for skin cancer removal.
In this procedure, Dr. Harp removes cancer cells one layer at a time, closely examining cells with a microscope to ensure the surgery collects and extracts all abnormal or cancerous cells from the treatment area. This type of micrographic surgery, invented in the 1930s by Dr. Frederick Mohs, is the most effective technique for removing common types of skin cancer.
What to expect during your Mohs surgery procedure
Before beginning your surgery, the team at Apex Dermatology provides numbing medication to prevent discomfort. We then clean and outline the treatment area. The surgical scalpel’s first cut removes the skin cancer’s visible surface sign. Then, Dr. Harp continues to examine the tissue beneath and around that growth for cancerous cells.
Because of the way Mohs surgery works, it’s not always easy to predict how long your procedure will take. Mohs surgery often takes less than four hours to complete. However, your procedure isn’t over until lab examination shows that all cancerous skin cells have been removed.
After Dr. Harp removes a thin layer of tissue, we cover the treatment area with a temporary bandage. You rest while the tissue undergoes lab analysis. Dr. Harp repeats these steps as needed until all the cancerous tissue is removed.
After the procedure, Dr. Harp closes the treatment site and dresses the surgical wound. She considers the treatment area’s post-healing appearance and carefully minimizes scarring. Depending on the details of your procedure, you may need stitches or a skin graft to support wound healing.
Recovering from skin cancer surgery
Without the Mohs technique, skin cancer removal surgery can involve high-pressure guesswork to determine just how far down into your skin cancerous changes have spread. When you’re sure all cancerous cells are gone, you can recover from the experience with increased peace of mind.
Out of all your options for skin cancer treatment, Mohs surgery offers the best possible cure rate. You find out your results immediately and can rest assured that, when you leave after your procedure, you’re free from skin cancer.
You may experience some post-surgery tenderness or bleeding around the treatment area. Most patients don’t experience severe pain after this surgery. You recover with minimal scarring, which is essential when treatment areas like the face, head, and neck are involved.
The Apex Dermatology team may follow up to see how you’re healing. We give ongoing advice on bandaging and care instructions. You can expect to need a bandage for at least a week, which may need to be changed daily.
When you need treatment for skin cancer, turn to the skin care experts at Apex Dermatology and benefit from our experience with Mohs surgery. Call now or book online to schedule an initial consultation appointment.
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Zoë Smith, MD
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Zoë Smith, MD
Dr. Zoë Smith, MD, is a compassionate and skilled dermatologist serving the Westlake Village, CA community at Apex Dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her dermatology residency at UCLA. Dr. Zoë has authored numerous articles on hair loss, skin cancer, and autoimmune conditions, showcasing her expertise. Her research includes work at the NIH and an externship at Harvard Medical School. A leader in her field, she is recognized for her warm approach to patient care and her commitment to volunteering with children who have skin conditions.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.