Mohs surgery
A typical case, in 6 steps over 1 visit. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Steps in a typical case
Exam and numbing
The Mohs surgeon examines the visible spot and plans what tissue to remove. Then a local anesthetic numbs the area.
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Removing the visible tumor
The visible part of the skin cancer is removed with careful surgical technique.
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Removing a thin layer and mapping
A thin, deeper layer of skin is removed and divided into sections. Each section is marked with colored dye, and a map is drawn to track where each piece came from.
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Checking under the microscope
In the lab, the surgeon checks the underside and edges of each section under a microscope for any remaining cancer cells.
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More layers only where needed
If cancer cells are found, their spot is marked on the map and another layer is removed from that spot only. This repeats until no cancer is seen.
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Repair and aftercare
When the area is clear, the surgeon talks through options to repair the wound, if needed, and how to care for it afterward.
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Questions to ask your dermatologist
- The typical case takes one visit. Would mine, and how long would it take?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long will healing take, and will it leave a mark?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses 17311, 17312, 17313, 17314, 17315).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- The Mohs step-by-step process. ACMS. www.mohscollege.org/for-patients/about-mohs-surgery/the-mohs-step-by-step-process. Accessed November 6, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: 17311, 17312, 17313, 17314, 17315.