Sun-kissed or Sun-cursed? Mohs Micrographic Surgery – A Ray of Hope

Summer is here with its warm breezes, and the sun is out in full splendor. While basking under the sun can be delightful, it’s time to get serious about sun protection. In this blog, we’ll delve into the realm of skin cancer, its prevalence, causes, and the importance of regular skin screenings. Furthermore, we'll introduce you to Mohs Micrographic Surgery – an advanced and efficient treatment for skin cancer.

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin Cancer Explained

Skin cancer is a condition where the skin cells begin to multiply uncontrollably. This abnormal growth can manifest in various forms, the most common being basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Prevalence of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is alarmingly common. In fact, it's the most common cancer in the United States. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.

Causes and the Role of the Sun

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun is the primary cause of skin cancer. UV rays can damage the DNA in your skin cells, leading to mutations and, ultimately, cancer. Tanning beds are also a major source of UV radiation. Remember that sunburn you got last summer? It’s essential to know that even one blistering sunburn can double the risk of melanoma.

Regular Skin Cancer Screenings

As the old saying goes, “prevention is better than cure.” Regular skin cancer screenings are vital in detecting any signs of skin cancer early. Early detection is crucial as it leads to more effective treatments. It's recommended to get a professional skin check once a year or more frequently if you’re at a higher risk.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery – A Ray of Hope

What is Mohs Micrographic Surgery?

Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a cutting-edge treatment for skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Named after Dr. Frederic Mohs who developed the technique, this surgery involves removing skin cancer layer by layer and examining the tissue until only cancer-free tissue remains.

Why Choose Mohs?

There are several reasons why Mohs Micrographic Surgery is preferred for treating skin cancer:

  1. Precision: By examining each layer of skin, it ensures that all cancer cells are removed.

  2. Tissue Sparing: It’s conservative and removes only the cancerous tissue, preserving as much healthy skin as possible.

  3. High Cure Rate: Mohs boasts the highest cure rate compared to other treatments, particularly for cancers that have recurred after previous treatments.

Recovery and Results

The recovery from Mohs Surgery is usually straightforward. Because it’s minimally invasive, there’s often less scarring and a shorter healing time compared to traditional surgeries.

Your Skin is Worth Protecting - Take Action Today!

Summer is a season for fun and frolic, but it's also the time to be vigilant about your skin’s health. The sun, although a source of vitamin D and joy, can be a formidable foe to your skin. With the information on skin cancer and the promising Mohs Micrographic Surgery at your disposal, it’s time to take charge.

If you’re interested in a skin cancer screening or have questions about skin cancer and Mohs Micrographic Surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out to New River Dermatology. Your skin is your body’s guardian; let’s safeguard it together!

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