Mohs Surgery

Mohs Surgery at UVM Health

Mohs surgery, also called Mohs micrographic surgery, is a highly specialized surgery to remove skin cancer, often from delicate areas like the face and neck. Our fellowship trained and board-certified surgeons remove cancer one layer at a time while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Why Choose UVM Health?

We provide advanced Mohs surgery and skin cancer care for patients across Vermont and northern New York. Our team performs the highest volume of Mohs surgery and advanced facial reconstruction in the region. You can receive nationally recognized treatment close to home.

We offer:

Advanced, evidence-based care: As an academic health system, UVM Health provides care guided by the latest research, national guidelines and best practices.
Team-based cancer care: Complex cases are reviewed by a multidisciplinary tumor board which includes experts in dermatology, pathology, hematology/oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology and head and neck surgery
Comprehensive reconstruction: When reconstruction is needed, our surgeons use advanced techniques to restore function and achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome.

Condition We Treat with Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is used to treat many types of skin cancer, particularly those in sensitive or high-risk areas.

Basal cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma
Melanoma
Nonmelanoma skin cancers
Rare and aggressive skin cancers, including recurrent tumors

Your care team will determine whether Mohs surgery is the best option for your diagnosis.

What to Expect

Mohs surgery is a same-day, outpatient procedure performed in our office-based surgery suites using local anesthesia.

During Mohs Surgery

Your surgeon removes a layer of skin around and under the skin cancer and examines it under a microscope while you wait.
A detailed map of the tissue helps identify any remaining cancer cells.
If cancer is still present, the surgeon removes another precise layer. This process is repeated until all cancer cells are gone.

Most patients need just one stage, but some may need more. Because every layer is carefully examined, Mohs surgery offers cure rates of up to 99% while keeping the wound as small as possible.

Once the area is cancer‑free, your surgeon will repair the wound, usually the same day. In rare cases, a specialist, such as an oculoplastic surgeon, may assist with reconstructions in very delicate areas, such as the eyelid. When you leave the office, the cancer has been fully removed and your procedure is complete.

Post-Surgical Care & Recovery

Recovery is an important part of your care. Our team supports you before, during and after your procedure. Every person heals differently and recovery times vary. You may need a few weeks or longer to fully heal.

Care for Your Wound

Follow your surgeon’s instructions for care at home. If the wound is repaired, stitches may dissolve or be removed about a week after surgery. In general:

Change your bandages as your surgeon instructs
Keep the area clean and avoid scrubbing
Expect mild redness or irritation as healing begins
Contact your care team if you have increasing pain or concerns

Side Effects

Common side effects include swelling, bruising and minor pain. They can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

Activity & Exercise

You will most likely need to limit exercise, possibly take time off from school or work, and accept help at home as you recover. Your surgeon will provide a postoperative care plan.

Patient Resources

American College of Mohs Surgery: Learn more about Mohs surgery, recovery and frequently asked questions from this national organization of fellowship-trained skin cancer and reconstructive surgeons.
American Academy of Dermatology – Skin Cancer Resources: Learn how to prevent and find skin cancer, along with information to help you make informed-treatment decisions.

Awards & Certifications

American College of Mohs Surgery

University of Vermont Medical Center is a member of the American College of Mohs Surgery, an organization of fellowship-trained and board-certified surgeons specializing in Mohs micrographic surgery and skin cancer reconstruction.