Performed by removing extremely thin layers of skin and examining them under a microscope to ensure the root of the cancer is discovered, Mohs micrographic surgery has an excellent cure rate. When performed by an experienced surgeon, it also helps avoid removing unnecessary skin.

Understanding Mohs Surgery

Mohs micrographic surgery is performed by Dr. Harrison on skin cancers in delicate and critical areas such as those on the nose, cheek, eyelid, ear, forehead and hands. At times it is a proper technique for skin cancer on the scalp, neck, body, arms and legs. Mohs surgery entails Dr. Harrison surgically removing a small piece of skin with the cancer in the center. 

He then checks the cut edge of the specimen for any roots of the cancer, by viewing the specimen under the microscope. If there is a cancer root, he can take a second specimen and immediately check it under the microscope for clear margins in every direction, and at the sides and the deep margin for residual cancer.

Dr. Harrison can confirm that the cancer is fully removed by seeing normal tissue under the microscope in all excised directions.

One advantage of having Mohs surgery for a skin cancer (basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer) is that the cure rate is the highest compared to other techniques, even those techniques performed by other skilled surgeons (but who do not perform Mohs surgery). Another advantage of Mohs surgery is that excess skin is spared and not needed to be cut in removing the skin cancer. The resulting surgical defect is as small as possible while clearing the skin cancer. 

Dr. Harrison has completed specialized training specific in Mohs micrographic surgery. He also has advanced specialty training in skin pathology – critical skills needed to accurately detect the roots of skin cancer under the microscope. He is a Fellow in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, having completed six months dedicated to Mohs Surgery.  Dr. Harrison taught skin pathology and skin surgery to dermatology resident physicians while he was a Full Time Assistant Professor in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Florida. In 1997, Dr. Harrison moved to the Salt Lake City area for private practice and later began Trueskin Dermatology and Surgery.

Schedule Your Mohs Surgery Consultation Today

With decades of experience performing and teaching Mohs surgery, TrueSkin’s Dr. Harrison is truly a leader in the field. Contact us today to book your appointment with a board-certified dermatologist.

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