Skin cancer is among the most common cancers in the United States, and when detected early, it is highly treatable with procedures like Mohs surgery and standard excision.
At Clear Creek Dermatology in Fredericksburg, TX, patients are treated by highly qualified physicians, including Dr. Brian Ransdell, a double-board-certified Mohs surgeon and former Director of Dermatology at Baylor Scott & White, and Dr. Emily Prosise, a Stanford-trained dermatologist and former clinical professor at NYU and UC Irvine. Their team also includes Dr. Olivia Chen, a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon from MD Anderson with global surgical experience. Choosing the right approach depends on each patient’s unique diagnosis and skin health needs.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise technique that removes skin cancer layer by layer. During the procedure, each layer is examined under a microscope to check for remaining cancer cells. This process continues until the margins are clear, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Mohs surgery is often recommended for:
- Skin cancers on the face, ears, or hands
- Cancers with unclear borders
- Recurring tumors or aggressive growths
- Areas where cosmetic outcomes are a priority
What Is Standard Excision?
Standard excision involves surgically removing the tumor along with a margin of healthy skin. The tissue is then sent to a laboratory to confirm whether the cancer has been fully removed. While not as targeted as Mohs, this method is highly effective and more commonly used for less complicated cases.
Standard excision is typically chosen for:
- Tumors on the torso, arms, or legs
- Non-aggressive cancers
- Patients without a history of recurrence
Comparing Mohs and Standard Excision
Both surgeries are designed to eliminate skin cancer, but their approach and advantages differ.
Mohs Surgery:
- Highest cure rates, especially for basal and squamous cell carcinomas
- Preserves more healthy tissue
- Often completed in a single visit with immediate lab results
Mohs is especially useful in areas where preserving healthy tissue is important, such as the face or hands. Its precision makes it ideal for aggressive or recurring skin cancers.
Standard Excision:
- Widely available and less time-intensive per session
- Appropriate for straightforward cases
- Often more cost-effective for certain patients
Standard excision is a dependable option for removing well-defined tumors. It is frequently used for skin cancers on the trunk or limbs, where cosmetic outcomes are less critical.
Comparing Skin Cancer Procedures in Fredericksburg, TX
Mohs surgery may be the preferred choice for cancers in delicate or high-risk areas, while standard excision remains a trusted option for simpler cases.
If you are in the Fredericksburg area and have concerns about a suspicious spot or a recent diagnosis, now is the time to act. Clear Creek Dermatology provides expert care and personalized treatment plans to help you maintain your health and skin. Schedule your consultation today by calling 830-953-1700.
