Doctor Selection · Dermatologist
What Is a Mohs Surgeon?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
A Mohs surgeon is a dermatologist who has completed a 1-year ACGME-accredited fellowship in Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery and performs Mohs micrographic surgery — the most precise technique for removing skin cancer. Mohs surgery removes cancer layer by layer with microscopic margin evaluation, offering the highest cure rates (typically 97-99%) while sparing the maximum amount of healthy tissue.
What Mohs surgery is
A staged surgical technique where thin layers of cancerous tissue are removed and examined under a microscope by the surgeon in real time. Additional layers are removed only where cancer remains. The technique was developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs and is the standard of care for many basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas on the face, hands, feet, and genital area.
Fellowship training
After completing a 3-year dermatology residency, Mohs surgeons complete a 1-year ACGME-accredited Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery fellowship covering Mohs technique, reconstruction, dermatopathology, and complex skin cancer management. Many are members of the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) — the most rigorous Mohs credentialing body.
When Mohs surgery is recommended
Skin cancers on the face, scalp, ears, hands, feet, or genitals where tissue preservation is important. Recurrent skin cancers. Aggressive subtypes of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma. Large cancers (>2 cm). Cancers with poorly defined borders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cure rates for Mohs surgery?
Mohs surgery cure rates are 97-99% for primary basal cell carcinoma and 94-99% for primary squamous cell carcinoma — the highest of any treatment for these cancers.
How do I verify a surgeon is fellowship-trained in Mohs?
Search the surgeon's name at the American College of Mohs Surgery (mohscollege.org) member directory or confirm fellowship completion through their CV.
Is Mohs surgery the same as standard excision?
No. Standard excision removes the tumor with a margin of normal tissue and sends the entire specimen to a lab for later analysis. Mohs surgery examines margins microscopically during the procedure, allowing complete removal in a single visit with minimal healthy tissue removed.
Does Mohs surgery leave a scar?
Yes — any surgical removal leaves a scar. Mohs surgeons are trained in reconstruction to minimize scarring and typically perform the closure the same day.
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