MOHS Surgery
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Award winning dermatology service, with over 20 years of experience
Short waiting lists, on some occasions offering same week appointments
Safe environment, in Care Quality Commission approved facilities
MOHS SURGERY IN LONDON
Mohs surgery is an effective, surgical skin cancer treatment, most commonly used to treat basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). The Mohs procedure allows us to map excision margins microscopically and works by removing the tumor gradually in small layers and examining the tissue until all the cancerous cells have been removed. This precise removal technique leaves as much healthy tissue as possible as the entire margins are being checked, and allows us to be confident the cancer has been completely removed.
How Does MOHS Treatment Work?
During MOHs surgery, local anaesthetic is applied to freeze the treatment area. The surgeon then uses a scalpel to remove the part of the tumor that can be seen along with a thin layer of tissue underneath. The tissue sample is taken to the lab and processed by a biomedical scientist before it is examined by the doctor under a microscope to see if there are any cancer cells still in the tissue. If cancer is detected in the layer, another thin layer of tissue is removed and examined. This process continues until the margins are negative, meaning the tissue layer contains no cancerous cells and there is a surrounding margin of healthy tissue. Each round of surgery and examination takes about an hour so treatment length will depend on how many layers need to be removed.
As this procedure is done in stages, all cancerous cells are able to be removed, sparing healthy tissue and leaving the smallest possible scar. This makes Mohs surgery ideal for areas where preserving as much normal tissue is important, such as the lips, ears and eyelids. Mohs surgery is also used to treat skin cancers which are difficult to see with the naked eye or those which have come back after previous treatment.
By using this labour intensive method, only the tissue where cancer is present is removed and there is excellent preservation of the normal skin. After the cancer has been fully removed, the surgeon will determine the type of repair for the best cosmetic result.
CONDITIONS WE TREAT WITH MOHS SURGERY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DO I BOOK MOHS SURGERY?
Please book a consultation with one of our consultant dermatologists either via the enquiry form on the website or by giving our clinic a call. Your condition will be assessed and recommended treatment options provided.
DO I NEED TO STAY IN HOSPITAL OVERNIGHT FOLLOWING MOHS TREATMENT?
You will usually be able to return home on the day of the operation and we suggest that you bring a relative or friend with you to accompany you.
WHAT PAIN RELIEF IS AVAILABLE DURING MOHS SURGERY?
The surgery is carried out using local anaesthesia unless an alternative has been discussed with you. You will therefore be awake during the operation however the area being operated on will be numbed so you should feel no discomfort. Some patients may receive pre-medication which will bring on some drowsiness.
DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING BEFORE MY MOHS SURGERY?
Please abstain from alcohol and avoid all medications containing Aspirin for five days prior to surgery. Unless advised to the contrary, on the day of surgery, please take any regular medications and eat a normal breakfast.
WHAT DO I DO WHILE I AM WAITING FOR THE SAMPLES TO BE TESTED IN THE LAB?
While the removed tissue is being tested for cancerous cells in the lab, you will be able to relax in your room or cubicle. Please bring something to read and Wi-Fi is available. Refreshments are available or you may prefer to bring a snack with you.
WILL MY WOUND NEED REPAIRING AFTER SURGERY?
Depending where the tumour is situated, during your consultation the doctor will have discussed the possible options for repair after the tumour is removed. It may be that the repair will be done during the same appointment once the tumor has been removed or it may be that another surgeon will carry out the procedure at another time. If the wound does not need any further treatment and is to heal naturally, you will be given instructions on the care routine you need to follow.
HEAR FROM OUR PATIENTS
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Please fill in this form and one of our team will give you a call back to arrange a consultation with one of our expert dermatologists.
WHY HAVE MOHS SURGERY AT THE HARLEY STREET DERMATOLOGY CLINICS?
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK, with over 400 people being diagnosed every day. Early detection of skin cancer, through examination and regular monitoring of moles, saves lives and if caught and treated early enough there is a 100% chance of survival. That is why having the right dermatologist is important especially when you have a chronic skin condition that will require ongoing treatment. We want you to feel confident that we’re providing you with the best possible care. We also want you to feel as comfortable as possible with your dermatologist.
The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic specialises in conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails. Our goal is to provide all the care that you need when you’re experiencing these kinds of problems. We want to make it easy for you to access the best quality Mohs surgery London.
The clinic is conveniently located in Central London, so it’s easy to visit us if you need to see a dermatologist. You will find yourself in a very comfortable and welcoming environment. We have created a relaxing space where you will receive the highest quality of care. We are regulated by the Care Quality Commission, are part of the British Association of Dermatologists and are top rated by patients of Doctify so you can be sure of safe and effective treatment with us.
SKIN CANCER INSIGHTS AND ADVICE
Ask The Expert: Sun Damage
WHAT DO I DO IF I BURN MY SKIN? Ideally, with the right high SPF sun cream and caution, sunburn can be avoided completely. However, in cases where sunburn happens, it is important to begin treating as soon as possible and get out of the
Worried about a mole?
A mole is a coloured spot on the skin which is made up of a cluster of cells known as melanocytes which are responsible for producing the pigment in your skin. Sometimes these melanocytes grow in a cluster instead of being spread out which results
Is Basal Cell Carcinoma on the Rise?
Basal Cell Carcinoma or BCC is the most common type of skin cancer in the UK, but is it getting more common and what can you do to reduce the risk?
