Mohs surgery is a specialized technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It involves removing cancerous tissue layer by layer and examining each layer microscopically for cancer cells until no further cancerous cells are detected.

Skin cancer is typically diagnosed through a skin examination by a dermatologist. If a suspicious lesion or mole is identified, a biopsy may be performed to analyze the tissue for cancerous cells.

At Florida Dermatology Specialists, we’re proud to offer the following types of skin cancer treatments:

• Mohs Surgery

• Destruction (ED&C) 

• Excision

• Atypical Fibroxanthoma

• Basal Cell Carcinoma

• Lentigo Maligna

• Melanoma

• Melanoma in Situ

• Merkel Cell Carcinoma

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Skin cancer prevention techniques such as daily sunscreen application and limiting sun exposure don’t guarantee that you’ll avoid a skin cancer diagnosis. However, they can minimize your chances of developing skin cancer, and in the event that you do develop skin cancer, you will be able to detect it earlier with frequent screening and self-exams. Most skin cancer prevention techniques don’t even require visits to the dermatologist. Men and women of all ages can take action in preventing skin cancer by making small changes in their daily habits, including covering their skin with light layers and using broad-spectrum SPF products.

For routine check-ups, a general recommendation is to visit a dermatologist annually or as advised based on your skin health needs. Those with chronic conditions or a history of skin cancer may need more frequent visits. Consult with your dermatologist to assess your specific needs and develop a personalized schedule for visits based on your individual health concerns.

Your melanoma treatment will depend on the severity of your symptoms and the treatment approach that is best for you. Fortunately, when detected early, melanoma treatment is highly successful. However, patients who have previously had melanoma have a higher risk of developing it in the future, and should monitor their skin accordingly. Patients with a newly diagnosed melanoma will need to be seen frequently for the first two years for regular skin examinations. In addition to a risk of local recurrence, patients have a higher risk of a second new melanoma. In addition, first degree relatives of melanoma patients should have annual screening skin examinations. At times, genetic screening and counseling may be advised for certain patients.

Florida Dermatology Specialists is the premier practice for dermatology treatments. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating all diseases of the hair, skin, and nails. Led by Dr. Richard Krathen, board-certified Dermatologist, board-certified Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon, and fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon, we offer a full range of dermatology treatments to help patients prevent and manage the symptoms. With offices in Palm Beach Gardens, Port St. Lucie, and Stuart, FL, we welcome patients from the nearby areas of Florida.