A skin cancer diagnosis can be scary, but our DSA Dermatology of Plano, Texas, team is there to help you through the treatment process. With solutions such as Mohs micrographic surgery, patients can easily rest assured that the treatment option is the best for their unique needs. Let’s look at Mohs micrographic surgery as a skin cancer treatment and why our team might recommend this service for your case.
What is Mohs micrographic surgery?
Our doctors at DSA Dermatology describe Mohs micrographic surgery as a specialized surgical technique used to remove skin cancer. It was developed by a doctor named Frederic E. Mohs in the 1930s, and it has continued to gain popularity over the years due to its high success rate in removing cancer while preserving the healthy surrounding skin and tissue.
How is Mohs micrographic surgery performed?
During Mohs micrographic surgery at DSA Dermatology, our surgeon removes one layer of tissue at a time, examining each layer under a microscope for cancer cells. If any cancer cells are found, another layer of tissue is removed and examined until no more cancer cells are present. This process allows for precise removal of the cancerous tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Additionally, because our surgeon examines each layer under a microscope, the chances of removing all cancer cells during the first surgery are much higher than other surgical methods.
Who is a candidate for Mohs micrographic surgery to treat skin cancer?
Because of its high success rate and precision, Mohs micrographic surgery is often used for many types of skin cancer. It is especially beneficial for skin cancers that are at a high risk of recurrence or have already recurred after previous treatments. Mohs micrographic surgery may also be recommended in situations where cancer is in a highly visible area, such as the face, where minimal impact and deformation/scarring are desired. Our doctors at DSA Dermatology will evaluate each patient individually to determine if they are a suitable candidate for Mohs micrographic surgery.
What are the benefits of Mohs micrographic surgery?
Aside from its high success rate in removing cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue, Mohs micrographic surgery has several other advantages. These include:
- Minimally invasive procedure. Mohs micrographic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique, meaning it requires smaller incisions and causes less trauma to the skin compared to traditional methods.
- Local anesthesia. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, which means patients do not have to undergo general anesthesia and its associated risks.
- Same-day treatment. In most cases, patients can have their cancer removed and reconstructed on the same day, minimizing the need for multiple appointments and procedures.
- Highly precise removal of cancer cells. The microscopic examination allows our surgeon to accurately map out the extent of cancerous tissue, resulting in more precise removal of cancer cells and minimizing the risk of leaving any behind.
- Minimal scarring. By preserving healthy tissue, Mohs micrographic surgery can result in minimal scarring compared to other surgical methods.
Who can I contact in Plano, Texas, to learn more about Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer treatment?
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, our team at DSA Dermatology may recommend this procedure as part of your treatment plan. Contact us today to schedule a consultation appointment at our office, conveniently located at 5072 West Plano Parkway, Suite 150, and reachable by dialing (972) 362-9567.
Why Choose DSA Dermatology?
At DSA Dermatology, we bring to you the best of not one but three leading dermatologists in Plano TX,
At DSA Dermatology, we bring to you the best of not one but three leading dermatologists in Plano TX, Dr. Daniel S. Achtman, Dr. Carmine G. McConnell and Dr. Jordan. Achtman.
Dr. Achtman is a board-certified Dermatologist with over three decades of experience. Having graduated from the medical school of McMaster University, he also studied at the UTSW Medical Center in Dallas, TX where he also served as Chief Resident in the Department of Dermatology. In addition to possessing extensive training and experience in cosmetic enhancement techniques, Dr. Achtman is widely known as a leading expert in the diagnosis and treatment of various skin cancers. He is an active member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Achtman goes the extra mile to understand your medical concerns and to ensure that he helps you meet your unique aesthetic goals.
Dr. Carmine G. McConnell is a board-certified physician in Plano TX. Having been trained at McMaster University, Canada, she went on to earn her board certification in Texas. Having served as Chief of Staff of her department at Plano Medical Center, she has over two decades of experience in practicing medicine in her practice and while assisting Dr. Achtman in the practice of dermatology. In addition to her extensive postgraduate training in laser therapy and aesthetic surgery, among other procedures, she possesses vast experience in both cosmetic dermatological techniques and family medicine. As a conscientious and caring physician, Dr. McConnell provides her patients with customized non-surgical treatments to help address health and aesthetic concerns related to the skin. She is also keen on helping patients understand their skin and how it can be cared for and protected.
Dr. Jordan Achtman is a board-certified dermatologist in DSA Dermatology at Plano, TX. Dr. J. Achtman graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and completed his residency in dermatology at UT Southwestern. His expertise spans general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. J. Achtman also has various special interests including chronic itch, infectious diseases of the skin, and the relationship between mental health and skin health. He is also very keen on helping patients form healthy skincare regimens and habits. In the hands of Dr. J. Achtman, you can be assured of innovative and cutting edge solutions for all your skin concerns.