Mohs surgery at Geisinger

Here, you can expect innovative treatments and personalized care centered around you. We offer:

Care designed for you, where you live 

No matter which of our locations throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania you choose, you’ll have a cancer team offering consultations and comprehensive care. Leading-edge treatment options and tailored-to-you care are backed by the expertise and innovation of a nationally recognized health system. 

The knowledge you need

Your care team is here to support your unique health needs. Their expertise has been honed by treating many people, through every stage and age. And their focus is on delivering the care best suited to your needs.

What is Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery is a precise technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer. Because Mohs surgery is so precise, it’s very effective. The cure rate for most new cases of skin cancer treated with Mohs surgery is 98% to 99%.

The procedure is done in a doctor’s office or outpatient clinic under local anesthesia. The entire process is done in stages over the course of a few hours.

The surgeon starts by marking the location of your cancer. Then they numb your skin with a local anesthetic and remove a layer of skin from the affected area, which goes to the lab for processing. The nursing team bandages your wound, and you’ll wait while the lab processes and analyzes the sample. 

Once a technician prepares slides of your cells, the surgeon looks at them under a microscope. If any cancer cells are still present, they’ll mark the location and remove more skin.

The process repeats until the surgeon can’t find any cancerous cells under the microscope. After they’ve removed the skin cancer, your surgeon will talk with you about how to treat the wound. This may involve stitches, or you may be able to let the wound heal on its own. 

Who is a candidate?

Mohs surgery may be right for you if your skin cancer is:

• In a sensitive area, like on your face, scalp, ears, neck or hands
• At risk of coming back
• Large or aggressive

If you’re a candidate for Mohs surgery, your provider will walk you through the process.

Preparing for Mohs surgery

Before your procedure, your provider will review your medical history and medications. You may need to stop or adjust certain medications beforehand. 

Because Mohs surgery can be a lengthy process, depending on the extent of your skin cancer, be prepared to spend a few hours at the office. When you’re getting dressed, opt for comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Your provider will tell you if it’s OK to eat before your procedure.

To pass the time while you wait, consider bringing things like a book, your phone or tablet and a snack (if allowed). And be sure to bring someone with you who can drive you home after the procedure.