Skin Cancer Surgery in San Diego, CA

Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Melanoma

Mohs Micrographic Surgery was developed by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs in the 1930’s for the removal of skin cancer in a highly precise, effective method that removes not only the visible tumor but also any “roots” that may have extended beneath the skin surface. It is indicated for skin cancers in functionally and cosmetically important areas of the body. Five-year cure rates have been demonstrated up to 99 percent for treatment of primary cancers and 95 percent cure rate for recurrent cancers.

Mohs surgery involves staged removal and microscopic analysis of thin layers of tissue at the tumor site until the last traces of the cancer have been eliminated. The immediate and complete microscopic examination and evaluation of excised tissue is what differentiates Mohs surgery from other cancer removal procedures. Cancerous tissue is removed until a clear margin is obtained, minimizing surgical defect/post-operative wound size and recurrence of skin cancer. In addition, the cancer is cleared and the site repaired in one visit.

Mohs physicians are highly trained to function as surgeon, pathologist and reconstructive surgeon during the cancer removal process. Dr. Eaton is a uniquely qualified physician, having completed a Head & Neck surgical residency training program and a post-residency Mohs fellowship program accredited by the American College of Mohs Surgery. He was also the co-director of the Mohs fellowship training program during his tenure at the Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California. Mohs surgery is performed under local anesthetic in our state-of-the art office equipped with surgical and laboratory facilities, and supported by Mohs-trained nursing and technical staff.

Mohs surgery is most commonly used for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, although it can be recommended for the eradication of other cancers such as melanoma. Cancers that are biologically aggressive, have a propensity for recurrence, or have already recurred are often treated using this technique because it is so meticulous. High precision makes Mohs surgery ideal for the elimination of cancers in cosmetically and functionally critical areas such as the face, hands, feet and genitals.

For more information, visit the Patient Education Link at www.skincancermohssurgery.org,