Mohs Surgery in Miami: Advanced Skin Cancer Treatment

What Is Mohs Micrographic Surgery?

Mohs surgery is a specialized surgical technique that removes skin cancer with exceptional precision. Unlike traditional excision, the surgeon removes thin layers of tissue one at a time and immediately examines each layer under a microscope. This real-time analysis allows Dr. Puyana to identify remaining cancer cells and remove only affected tissue, sparing as much healthy skin as possible.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), Mohs surgery achieves cure rates of 95-99% for basal cell carcinoma and 90-98% for squamous cell carcinoma—significantly higher than standard excision. The procedure is particularly valuable for skin cancers on cosmetically sensitive areas like the face, ears, nose, and around the eyes, where tissue preservation is critical.

Why Choose Mohs Surgery for Skin Cancer in South Florida?

Miami's intense UV exposure makes skin cancer screening and treatment essential. South Florida residents face year-round sun exposure, increasing melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer risk. Mohs surgery is ideal for:

• High-risk locations: Face, ears, nose, lips, eyelids
• Recurrent cancers: Previously treated tumors that return
• Large or ill-defined tumors: Cancers with unclear borders
• Cosmetically sensitive areas: Where appearance matters

Dr. Puyana's expertise in Mohs surgery ensures optimal outcomes for Coral Gables and Miami patients seeking advanced skin cancer treatment with superior cure rates and minimal scarring.

The Mohs Procedure: What to Expect

Muring your appointment at Miami Skin Center:

1. Local anesthesia: The area is numbed with local anesthetic
2. Initial removal: Dr. Puyana removes the visible tumor plus a small margin
3. Tissue processing: The specimen is frozen, sectioned, and stained
4. Microscopic examination: Margins are analyzed under microscopy (usually 30-60 minutes)
5. Additional layers if needed: If cancer cells remain, another layer is removed and examined
6. Closure: Once cancer-free margins are confirmed, the wound is closed using the most appropriate technique

Most patients complete Mohs surgery in one appointment, though complex cases may require a second stage.

Aftercare and Results

Post-operative care ensures optimal healing and minimal scarring. Dr. Puyana provides detailed wound care instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing. Results include:

• Highest cure rates for skin cancer
• Minimal scarring due to precise tissue removal
• Preserved function and appearance, especially on the face
• Single-day treatment

FAQ

Q: Is Mohs surgery covered by insurance? A: Yes, most insurance plans cover Mohs surgery when medically necessary for skin cancer treatment. Contact our Coral Gables office for verification of your coverage.

Q: How long does Mohs surgery take? A: The procedure typically takes 2-4 hours, including tissue processing and examination time. Complex cases may take longer.

Q: Will I have a scar after Mohs surgery? A: Scars are minimized due to precise tissue removal. Dr. Puyana uses advanced closure techniques to optimize cosmetic outcomes, though some scarring may occur depending on cancer size and location.

Q: Is Mohs surgery painful? A: No. Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area completely during the procedure. Some minor discomfort may occur during healing, but pain is typically minimal.