Skin Cancer and Mohs Surgery

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and Mohs micrographic surgery offers the best chance for complete removal. Mohs surgery has a reported cure rate of up to 99 percent for primary tumors and 94 percent for recurrent tumors.

Brown Health Medical Group Dermatology surgeons are experts in performing Mohs surgery, a highly precise surgical technique used to remove skin cancer. The procedure uses microscopic guidance to target and remove cancer cells while conserving as much healthy skin as possible.

Through Mohs surgery, Brown Health Medical Group Dermatology specialists examine 100 percent of the tumor margins, spare healthy tissue, minimize the size of the surgical defect, and support optimal cosmetic outcomes. The procedure is typically completed in a single office visit using local anesthesia.

The Mohs Surgery Process

Mohs skin cancer surgery is one of the most effective treatments for many types of skin cancer. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the cancer, analyzes the tissue to confirm all cancer cells have been removed, and repairs the wound.

Here is how the process works:

• The surgeon examines the visible lesion and plans what tissue to remove. The patient receives local anesthesia, and Mohs surgery begins.
• The surgeon removes the visible portion of the tumor using advanced surgical techniques.
• A thin layer of skin is removed and mapped to track exactly where each portion of tissue originated.
• Under a microscope, the surgeon examines the undersurfaces and edges of the tissue for any remaining cancer cells.
• If cancer cells remain, the surgeon marks their location on the map and removes another layer from that specific area.
• When no evidence of cancer remains, the removal process stops, and the wound is closed.

Mohs surgery removes only tissue containing cancer, preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon will discuss reconstruction options, if needed, and provide post‑operative care instructions.

We accept all forms of insurance and work with patients to ensure they receive the level of care they deserve.

Meet Our Dermatologic Surgery Providers

With offices in East Providence, Warwick, and South Kingston, Rhode Island, Brown Health Medical Group Dermatology surgeons specializing in Mohs surgery are conveniently located for patients throughout New England.