Mohs Surgery in Herriman, Utah | Summit Mohs Dermatology
The most effective treatment option for skin cancer.
The short video below, published by the American College of Mohs Surgery, explains how Mohs surgery works.
At Summit Mohs Dermatology, Mohs surgery is performed by a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon with extensive experience in complex facial reconstruction.
We remove skin cancer layer by layer, examining 100% of the surgical margin under the microscope in our on-site laboratory the same day.
This allows us to achieve high cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, especially in cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas.
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer. This specialized technique allows the surgeon to examine 100% of the surgical margin immediately during the procedure.
After each layer is removed, the tissue is carefully mapped and examined under the microscope in our on-site laboratory. If cancer cells remain, only the precise area involved is removed.
This process continues layer by layer until the cancer is fully cleared, while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Mohs surgery is best performed by dermatologists who have completed additional fellowship training in Mohs micrographic surgery.
Dr. David Cowart is board-certified in dermatology and completed fellowship training in Mohs surgery. Fellowship training includes advanced surgical reconstruction, detailed pathology interpretation, and management of complex and high-risk skin cancers.
This additional training is specifically focused on skin cancer removal and reconstruction in cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas.
Local anesthesia
The area is numbed so you remain comfortable and awake throughout the procedure.
First layer removed
The visible skin cancer and a thin layer of surrounding tissue are carefully removed.
Microscopic examination
The tissue is processed in our on-site laboratory and examined under the microscope.
Additional layers (if needed)
If cancer cells remain, only the specific area involved is removed. This step may be repeated until margins are clear.
Waiting between stages
Each stage typically takes about 30–60 minutes to process. You will have a temporary bandage placed and remain comfortable while waiting.
Reconstruction
Once the cancer is fully removed, repair options are discussed and are most commonly performed the same day.
In a standard excision, the visible skin cancer is removed along with a margin of surrounding tissue, which is then sent to an outside laboratory for evaluation. Only portions of the surgical margin are typically examined.
With Mohs surgery, the entire surgical margin (100%) is examined immediately during the procedure. This allows the surgeon to precisely identify and remove any remaining cancer cells while sparing as much healthy skin as possible.
Mohs micrographic surgery offers the highest cure rates and improved tissue preservation.
Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) uses low-energy radiation to treat certain skin cancers without surgery. SRT may be considered for some superficial, low-risk skin cancers when surgery is not appropriate.
However, SRT is not appropriate for many skin cancers, particularly:
Tumors with aggressive growth patterns
Recurrent cancers
Lesions with ill-defined borders
Larger or deeper tumors
Many cancers located on the head and neck
Unlike Mohs surgery, radiation therapy does not provide microscopic confirmation that the cancer has been completely removed. Recurrence may occur years later and can be more complex to manage.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines list Mohs surgery as a preferred treatment for many high-risk basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas when surgery is appropriate.
The American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) recognizes Mohs surgery as the standard of care for many high-risk skin cancers, particularly those located on the head and neck.
Treatment decisions should always be individualized. During your consultation, we will review all appropriate options and discuss which approach is safest and most effective for your specific diagnosis.
If you’ve been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or told you may need Mohs surgery, we’re here to guide you through the next steps with clarity and precision.
Our team will review your pathology, discuss appropriate treatment options, and ensure you feel informed and comfortable before proceeding.
