Medically reviewed by Jane Yoo, MD, MPP, dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Last reviewed 11/4/2026.

The short answer: Mohs surgery is a way of removing skin cancer one thin layer at a time, with each layer examined under the microscope while you wait. The surgeon keeps removing tissue only where cancer cells remain, so the cancer is cleared completely while as much healthy skin as possible is preserved. For many basal cell and squamous cell cancers, especially on the face, it has the highest cure rate of any treatment.

Why Mohs is different from a standard excision

In a standard excision, the surgeon removes the visible cancer plus a margin of normal-looking skin. The tissue goes to a lab, and you hear days later whether the edges were clear. In Mohs, the surgeon is also the pathologist for that day. The edges are checked in real time, so you leave knowing the cancer is gone.

Who is a good candidate for Mohs

• Skin cancers on the face, ears, nose, lips, eyelids, hands, feet or genitals, where saving tissue matters
• Cancers that are large, fast-growing, or have ill-defined edges
• Cancers that have come back after earlier treatment
• Certain aggressive types of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma
• Some rarer skin cancers, depending on the case

Not every skin cancer needs Mohs. A small, low-risk cancer on the trunk may be treated just as well another way.

What happens on the day

1. Numbing. The area is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic. Most patients feel pressure but not pain.
2. First layer. The surgeon removes the visible cancer with a thin layer of surrounding tissue and maps its position.
3. Lab processing. The tissue is prepared on slides in the on-site lab. You wait comfortably while this happens.
4. Microscope review. The surgeon examines the entire underside and edge of the layer.
5. More layers if needed. If cancer cells remain, the surgeon removes another layer only from the exact spot and repeats the process.
6. Repair. Once the margins are clear, the wound is repaired. Options include stitches, a skin flap, a graft, or letting it heal on its own.

Plan for most of the day. The number of layers cannot be predicted, so bring something to read and arrange a ride if the site is near your eye.

Reconstruction and scarring

The repair is planned once the cancer is out and the defect size is known. Because Mohs saves healthy tissue, the wound is as small as it can be. Your surgeon can tell you which repair is most appropriate for the location.

Recovery: what to expect

• Expect a bandage for a day or two, then simple wound care
• Mild soreness is common and usually settles within a few days
• Swelling and bruising are common near the eyes and on the forehead
• Stitches typically come out in one to two weeks, depending on location
• Scars keep maturing for months.

Call the office for bleeding that does not stop with pressure, spreading redness, increasing pain, fever, or pus.

After Mohs: follow-up skin checks

Having one skin cancer raises the chance of another. Regular full-body skin exams, daily sunscreen and sun-protective clothing are part of the plan. [Link to the full-body skin check post and the sunscreen post.]

Frequently asked questions

Does Mohs surgery hurt? The area is numbed, so most people feel pressure and tugging. The numbing injection stings briefly.

How long does Mohs surgery take? It varies. Each layer takes time to process and read, so it is a half-day to a full day. You will be told once you arrive how the day is going.

Will I have a scar? Any surgery leaves a scar. Mohs is designed to keep the wound as small as possible, and scars usually fade with time.

Do I need to stop my blood thinners? Generally not without talking to your prescriber first. Tell the office about every medication and supplement.

Is Mohs always the right choice? No. Your dermatologist will recommend it based on the type, size, location and features of the cancer.

What is the cure rate? For many basal cell and squamous cell cancers, Mohs has the highest reported cure rates of any treatment.

Call to action: If you have been told you may need Mohs surgery, or you have a spot that is changing, bleeding or not healing, book a consultation.

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