Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, and it deserves serious treatment. Our skin cancer specialists in Phoenix, Buckeye, and Surprise offer Mohs surgery to help effectively treat skin cancer. With advanced techniques and personalized care, we focus on removing cancer while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.
Considered to be the most effective technique for treating skin cancer, Mohs surgery (named for Dr. Frederic Mohs) is a procedure in which layers of skin are removed one at a time and then examined underneath a microscope until the cancer is gone. This is why it is also known as “Mohs microscopic surgery”. It is done in stages and is regarded for its ability to spare as much healthy tissue as possible.
At Regency Specialties, Mohs surgery is something we pride ourselves on because we can remove skin cancer one layer at a time until we no longer find it under a microscope.
When arriving at Regency Specialties in Buckeye, Surprise, or Phoenix, patients should plan to clear their entire day because it can take a long time due to the analysis involved. The average time is four hours, but it’s smart to be prepared. Local anesthetic is used, so you are also welcome (and encouraged) to bring reading material, your iPad, water, snacks, or even a friend to keep you occupied, since you will be awake the entire time.
Be sure to follow all the guidelines we provide you with prior to your surgery, including taking any required medication. We recommend Tylenol if you need pain medication, because Tylenol does not thin your blood.
Please shower before the surgery and don’t apply any type of cosmetics, including lotion, makeup, or perfume. It’s also important that you wear comfortable clothing – particularly clothing that can be easily removed if it’s near the cancer.
Mohs surgery is performed in an operating room or office with a nearby lab so the Mohs surgeon can examine the tissue immediately after removal. Layers of tissue will be checked until the tests no longer detect any cancer.
Cleansing and Numbing
The area to be treated will be cleansed, and a numbing agent will be administered via injection to help with any discomfort.
Tissue Removal
Your Mohs surgeon will remove the visible tumor along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue with a scalpel and will place a temporary bandage.Chronic wounds, such as diabetic ulcers, pressure sores, and non-healing surgical sites, can significantly impact daily life. Our approach focuses on addressing the underlying causes, promoting tissue regeneration, and preventing infection, helping patients achieve lasting healing and improved mobility.
Testing
Additional Tissue Removal
If there is evidence of cancer, another layer of tissue will be taken from the area. This process ensures that only cancerous tissue is removed during the procedure, minimizing the loss of healthy tissue.
These steps are repeated until all tissues are free of cancer. While there are always exceptions to the rule, most tumors require 1 to 3 stages for complete removal. Come see our skin cancer specialists at Regency Specialties to find out more about Mohs surgery.Burn injuries can leave extensive damaged tissue that requires careful reconstruction to restore skin integrity and function. We provide comprehensive care that includes soft-tissue repair, grafting, and scar management to promote optimal healing and reduce long-term complications.
You may experience discomfort, bleeding, redness, or swelling after the procedure, but these issues should resolve on their own soon. You may also experience a sensation of tightness across the area of your surgery site. Your Mohs surgeon will give you instructions on how to clean the wound and inform you about any medication you will need to take.
You’ll need to avoid strenuous physical activity for 48 hours and, in some cases, 1 to 2 weeks. Complete healing of the scar takes place over 3 to 12 months. During the first few months, you may notice that the treated site feels swollen or lumpy and may appear red.
Although Mohs surgery has an extremely high cure rate, we will want to see you for regular follow-ups to ensure you remain cancer-free. These follow-ups are typically scheduled twice a year, but you may require more depending on how aggressive your cancer was. If you have further questions about the cancer returning, our skin cancer specialist will be more than happy to speak with you.
Taking the first step toward protecting your skin is easy when you schedule a private consultation with our experienced team. During your visit, we will carefully assess your skin, answer all your questions, and explain the best treatment options. We provide expert guidance for all types of skin cancer, helping you understand the risks, benefits, and next steps so you can make informed decisions about your care with confidence.
Unlike traditional treatments, Mohs focuses on the affected tissue only, reducing unnecessary removal of healthy skin. This is especially important in functionally sensitive areas, such as the nose, eyes, or lips, where preserving structure is critical.
The minimally invasive approach allows wounds to heal naturally, often without extensive reconstruction. This promotes faster recovery and better cosmetic outcomes, particularly in visible or sun-exposed areas.
The cost of Mohs surgery in Phoenix typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the size and location of the tumor. This surgical treatment is highly effective for common skin cancers, providing precise removal while preserving healthy tissue. Insurance coverage may vary, so it’s important to discuss options with your provider to understand out-of-pocket costs.
A skin cancer diagnosis can be frightening and overwhelming. You deserve empathetic medical professionals who meet the criteria of being skillful, experienced, and specialists in the field of skin cancer and reconstruction.
At Regency Specialties, we are proud to offer a professional team of skin cancer specialists in Phoenix, Buckeye, Surprise, and the surrounding areas to get you back on the path to a healthy body so that you can live your life happily and beautifully.