Medical Dermatology in Vestavia Hills, AL & serving the Birmingham, AL area

The most common form of skin cancer that occurs mostly to the sun-exposed areas of the body. Occurs after being heavily exposed to sun, especially people who are fair-skinned, with light hair and blue, green or gray eyes.

This type of skin cancer arises from the outer epidermal layer of skin and mucous membranes and occurs mostly on areas exposed to sun. In rare cases, this cancer may spread to major organs and become fatal.

A serious form of skin cancer of melanocytes, the cells that produce dark protective pigment called melanin. Lesions may form that are dark brown, black, or multi-colored growth with irregular borders that can become crusted and bleed.

This specialized procedure allows the dermatologist to assume the role of a surgeon and a pathologist at the same time. Below is a description of the procedure.

1. The tumor is surgically removed with a narrow rim of tissue. The doctor marks the specimen with special inks and creates a diagram on an anatomic map.
2. The specimen is immediately processed in the lab while the patient waits.
3. The doctor reviews the slides from the specimen to determine if the cells contain any remaining skin cancer.
4. If the cancer is gone then the wound is closed. If there is cancer remaining, the process is repeated.

More than 98% of basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers are cured by this procedure. Mohs surgery is ideal for skin cancers that are located near important parts such as the eyes or lips, and tumors that are growing at rapid rates. This process allows 100% margin viewing.

Mohs surgery requires planning for a half day office visit, although the procedure could take only a few hours, it is impossible to predetermine how many layers it will take to remove the entire tumor. Prior to your appointment, you should eat and take your regular medications. If you are scheduled to take your medication during the day, please don't forget to bring it with you so that you may take it at your scheduled time. Please have someone available to drive you home after the procedure.