Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery treats skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Procedures typically take two to four hours. Most patients receive complete treatment in one session.
You receive local anesthesia before the surgery, so while you are awake you don’t feel pain. Between stages of the procedure, you’ll have a temporary bandage on. You can sit up, talk, read, use your phone and go to the bathroom.
Your surgeon will provide clear instructions before the surgery. Avoid alcohol for a few days before your procedure. Bring a light snack and reading material or a quiet activity since you’ll have waiting time between stages. We recommend having someone drive you home after surgery.
After the anesthesia wears off, you may have some discomfort. You’ll receive instructions regarding activity limitations, wound care and pain control. Keep the incision clean and dry for a few days. It’s also best to limit strenuous activities.
Why Choose Us for Mohs Surgery Care?
Expertise
At UMass Memorial, you receive services from surgeons who are fellowship-trained and board-certified in both dermatology dermatology and micrographic surgery and dermatologic oncology (skin cancer). They perform more than 2,000 Mohs surgery procedures each year. Your surgery team works closely with oculoplastic (eye) surgeons and plastic surgeons when needed to give you the best results.
Optimal Cosmetic Outcomes
There is always a scar after surgery, but your surgeon makes every effort to hide it as much as possible. Skin cancers on the eyelids, nose or ears may require reconstructive surgery. Additional services such as laser therapy may help minimize their appearance.
Leadership and Research
Through our partnership with UMass Chan Medical School, our team leads a procedural dermatology fellowship that’s training the next generation of Mohs surgeons. Only centers like ours that perform a high volume of procedures and maintain excellent outcomes retain this honor. We are also advancing the field through cancer research and clinical trials.
Our Dermatology Locations
UMass Memorial Medical Center - University Campus
55 Lake Avenue North,
Worcester, MA 01655
UMass Memorial Medical Center - Memorial Campus
119 Belmont Street,
Worcester, MA 01605
UMass Memorial Medical Center - Hahnemann Campus
281 Lincoln Street,
Worcester, MA 01605
HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital - Clinton Campus
201 Highland Street,
Clinton, MA 01510
HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital - Leominster Campus
60 Hospital Road,
Leominster, MA 01453
HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital - Fitchburg Campus
275 Nichols Road,
Fitchburg, MA 01420
Get Started
Call 855-UMASS-MD (855-862-7763) to make an appointment with a Mohs surgeon.
Explore Related Recommended Content
