One always gets a scar after any surgery. Mohs’ Surgery is a method of tumor removal. In most cases, one will receive plastic surgery to repair the defect after the tumor is removed. Therefore, it is essential to choose a surgeon who will repair the defect carefully, as this will have a significant impact on the final cosmetic result. Obviously there are many other factors that play a role in the final cosmetic outcome, including the size of the tumor, the location of the tumor, & the depth of the tumor.
As Mohs’ surgery removes the least amount of normal skin it should have a cosmetic result that is superior to other forms of surgical removal (excision).
A “poor” cosmetic outcome does not mean that Mohs’ surgery is the cause of the result. The reconstruction after the procedure will have the greatest impact on the result. Larger tumors will result in more scar. Some areas heal more poorly than others. Smoking negatively impacts wound healing. Lower legs and feet heal more slowly.
In short, choosing a Mohs’ surgeon and a reconstructive surgeon is not like buying a pair specific of shoes–where no matter where you buy them, the shoe is the same. It is more like a painting–a Rembrandt is quite different than a work from your local street artist. Take care in choosing the best surgeon for you.
