At Lakeside Dermatology, serving patients in Winter Haven and Sebring, FL, we provide advanced care for skin cancer with a focus on precision and long-term skin health. When squamous cell carcinoma develops, early and effective treatment becomes essential. Mohs surgery remains one of the most reliable treatment options for this type of skin cancer, especially when tumors appear on cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas.

Why Mohs Surgery Is Used for Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma often develops from cumulative sun exposure and may grow deeper or spread if left untreated. Mohs surgery allows us to remove cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. This approach provides the highest cure rates because it examines 100 percent of the tumor margins during the procedure rather than relying on sampling alone.

We commonly recommend Mohs surgery for squamous cell carcinoma located on the face, ears, scalp, hands, or lower legs. It also works well for recurrent tumors, aggressive growth patterns, or cancers with poorly defined borders.

How Mohs Surgery Works

Mohs surgery occurs in stages during a single visit. We remove a thin layer of visible cancerous tissue and immediately examine it under a microscope. If cancer cells remain, we remove another targeted layer only from the affected area. This process repeats until no cancer cells remain.

This step-by-step approach ensures complete cancer removal while minimizing unnecessary tissue loss. By preserving healthy skin, Mohs surgery supports better cosmetic and functional outcomes.

What to Expect on the Day of Surgery

Patients remain awake during Mohs surgery, and local anesthesia keeps the area comfortable. The procedure may take several hours depending on how many stages are required. Between stages, patients relax while tissue analysis takes place.

Once cancer removal is complete, we determine the best method to repair the surgical site. Closure may involve stitches, a skin flap, or allowing the area to heal naturally depending on size and location.

Recovery After Mohs Surgery

Recovery varies by treatment area and wound size, but most patients return home the same day. Mild swelling, redness, or soreness may occur and usually resolves over time. We provide detailed wound care instructions to promote proper healing and minimize scarring.

Patients typically resume normal activities within a short period, although strenuous activity may require temporary restriction. Follow-up visits allow us to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Long-Term Monitoring After Treatment

Even after successful Mohs surgery, ongoing skin checks remain important. A history of squamous cell carcinoma increases the likelihood of developing additional skin cancers. Regular monitoring allows early detection and prompt treatment if new lesions appear.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma or need expert guidance on treatment options, professional care makes a difference. Lakeside Dermatology proudly serves patients in Winter Haven and Sebring, FL with comprehensive Mohs surgery care. To schedule an appointment, call 863-293-7546 for Winter Haven or 863-385-7183 for Sebring today.