- mohs Surgery is a highly effective technique for removing skin cancer layer by layer with minimal impact on healthy tissue.
- Ideal for sensitive areas like the nose, eyelids, lips, and ears, preserving both function and aesthetics.
- Used primarily too treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, with superior cure rates compared to traditional surgery.
- Performed under sedation; patients typically go home the same day.
- The Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital is a leading center in Alicante for Mohs Surgery, combining dermatologists, pathologists, and plastic surgeons.
- Early detection and monitoring of suspicious skin lesions remain critical to successful treatment.
Mohs surgery: The Most Effective and Aesthetic Treatment for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer has been on the rise worldwide, and with it, the demand for precise and effective treatments has grown. One procedure standing out for its success in treating skin cancer is Mohs micrographic surgery. This innovative method meticulously removes cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible, making it a preferred choice for tumors in highly visible or functionally crucial areas.
What is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a specialized technique that involves dissecting the cancerous tissue layer by layer and examining each slice instantly under a microscope during the procedure. This detailed process ensures that all cancer cells are removed in one session, drastically reducing the likelihood of recurrence.
Dr. Laura francés, head of the Dermatology Service at Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja, explains: “This method guarantees the complete elimination of tumor cells while preserving the maximum amount of healthy tissue. It is indeed especially recommended for lesions in sensitive areas like the nose, eyelids, lips, or ears, where both function and appearance are crucial.”
Why Choose Mohs Surgery?
- Higher Cure Rates: Mohs surgery offers considerably better cure rates for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma-the two most common types of non-melanoma skin cancer-compared to traditional surgery.
- Minimal Scarring: Because the technique conserves healthy tissue, the aesthetic result is superior, which is critical for visible or delicate areas.
- Single Day Procedure: The surgery is performed under sedation and patients typically return home the same day.
- Multi-Disciplinary Care: At Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja, dermatologists, pathologists, and plastic surgeons work together to ensure precise removal and optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Who is a Candidate for Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is especially indicated for:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Cancers located in high-impact aesthetic or functional zones such as the face, neck, hands, and genital areas
- Recurrent skin cancers or tumors with poorly defined borders
- Aggressive carcinomas at high risk of recurrence
Types of Skin Cancer and Prevention Tips
Understanding the main types of skin cancer helps in timely diagnosis and treatment:
| Skin Cancer Type | Description | Common Locations | Signs to Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) | Most common non-melanoma skin cancer, develops in the deepest epidermis layer. | Face, neck, hands | Shiny bumps, slow-growing wounds, reddish patches |
| Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) | Second most common, more likely to grow and spread than BCC. | Sun-exposed areas,lips,ears | Scaly or crusty lesions,persistent sores |
| Melanoma | Less common but very aggressive; originates in pigment-producing cells. | Anywhere on the body | New or changing moles,irregular shapes,color changes |
Dr. Carlos Hernández, dermatology expert at the same hospital, emphasizes: “The aging population and accumulated sun exposure have raised skin cancer incidence. Any non-healing wounds, changing lumps, or easy bleeding areas should prompt a dermatologist visit.”
Tips to Lower Skin Cancer Risk
- Avoid excessive sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Regularly check your skin for new or changing spots
- Visit a dermatologist promptly if you notice suspicious lesions
Conclusion
Mohs surgery represents a meaningful advancement in skin cancer treatment by maximizing tumor removal accuracy while minimizing aesthetic and functional damage. With centers like Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja leading the field,patients benefit from expert multidisciplinary care and better outcomes. Equally critically important is early detection, which remains key in beating skin cancer effectively.
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