Mohs Surgery Near the Eye for Low-Risk Cancer Treatment

If you're considering mohs surgery near your eyes, you should know that it carries a far greater chance of cancer removal than other treatments.

In this article, we'll discuss all aspects of mohs surgery, including what it is and why it might be recommended near the eye area. We'll understand how doctors use mohs surgery to map cancerous tissues and effectively target them with minimal damage to nearby healthy tissue.

Mohs Surgery Near the Eye: What is It?

Mohs Surgery is a specialized and highly advanced form of skin cancer treatment that can be performed near the eye. It involves surgically removing cancerous tissue from around the eyes without damaging surrounding healthy tissue.

The procedure includes mapping out and removing thin layers of tissue under a microscope until only non-cancerous tissue remains. 

The main benefit of this type of surgery is that it allows the surgeon to preserve as much normal tissue as possible while effectively removing all of the cancerous cells. This helps reduce scarring and improve the outcome.

Why Is it Recommended for Lower and Upper Eyelid Cancer Removal?

Mohs surgery is a specialized form of surgery that is used to treat certain types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

It is a highly effective technique for removing tumors from delicate areas where preserving healthy tissues like the eyelids is important. 

During Mohs surgery, surgeons remove thin layers of the affected area until all visible signs of cancer are removed. The technique allows surgeons to precisely target and remove the tumor, while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissue.

Benefits of Mohs Surgery for Treating Cancers Near the Eye

Mohs surgery on the near the eye offers many distinct benefits for treating certain cancers.

Mohs Surgery can be successfully used to treat a variety of skin cancers and tumors, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma, Merkel cell carcinomas and others.

In many cases it may be recommended to treat benign conditions such as warts or precancerous lesions like actinic keratoses on the face or scalp.

Since it only removes affected tissue, it minimizes scarring and reduces potential damage to surrounding areas.

By accurately targeting just the tumor and its associated margins, it increases the chances of successful results compared to other treatments available.

By putting in place precise safeguards throughout each step of the process, it ensures caregivers can explore every option available when dealing with rare forms or difficult cases of cancer in this area.

Mohs Procedure for Cancers Near the Eye

In cases where there is suspected upper eyelid cancer or lesion – specifically concerning the presence or absence of clinically significant tumor margins – Mohs surgery can provide an effective solution by allowing microscopic examination layer-by-layer until all margins are tumor-free before closure can occur.

During the procedure, your surgeon will conduct a thorough physical exam to determine size & extent of cancer/lesion before following up with advanced imaging techniques such as MRI & CT scans when available.

The entire process occurs while you are under local anesthesia only which ensures patient safety and comfort throughout the duration appointment.

After completion, patients usually return home with very little aftercare needed from long term side effects related to extended general anesthesia doses used in traditional surgeries.

The steps for Mohs surgery typically include:

Step 1. Anesthesia

During the procedure, you will receive either local or general anesthesia depending on your specific situation and how large the area of tumor removal is.

Step 2. Surgery

The surgeon will carefully remove the skin and cancerous tissue in thin layers until only healthy tissue remains.

Step 3. Examining

Each layer of excised tissue will be examined under a microscope to ensure that all of the cancer has been removed with no remaining abnormal cells.

Step 4. Reconstruction

If necessary, reconstructive procedures may be performed including scar revision, wound dressing and suturing, if applicable.

Step 5. Follow-up

After the procedure you will need to have follow-up appointments with your doctor as well as continued self-monitoring at home using digital photographs or regular self-examinations in front of a mirror so you can detect any changes in your skin quickly and contact your doctor if anything looks suspicious or unusual.

Post Operation Tips after Mohs Surgery Near the Eye

The first thing you need to remember after your Mohs surgery near the eye is that healing may take some time. Here are a few tips to help ensure optimal healing and avoid potential problems.

1. Keep the wound clean and dry: Cleaning the wound with mild soap and water using a cotton swab can help keep it free of bacteria. A light bandage can also be applied during healing.
2. Apply ointment or cream as directed: Depending on your surgeon’s recommendation, you may be advised to apply an antibiotic ointment or cream over the wound twice daily to prevent infection and promote healing.
3. Minimize sun exposure: Avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreen with minimum SPF 30 when going outdoors for several weeks after surgery to reduce the risk of scarring, discoloration or burning of new skin growth in that area.
4.  Follow up visits: Schedule follow-up visits with your doctor so they can monitor progress post-surgery, evaluate any changes in the appearance of your skin and decide whether further treatment is needed if a recurrence occurs in that area later on.
5. Treat pain if necessary: You might experience some discomfort or pain near an eye treated with Mohs surgery, so take your prescribed medication if you start to feel it.

Cost of Mohs Surgery Near the Eye

The cost of Mohs Surgery (also known as Mohs Micrographic Surgery or MMS) near the eye can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the size and location of the tumor, the complexity of the procedure, and the experience and qualifications of the surgeon.

On average, Mohs Surgery near the eye in an outpatient setting typically ranges between $1,500 to $3,000. This cost may be higher or lower depending upon each situation and should be discussed with your doctor prior to having it done.

Conclusion

At Dermatology & Skin Health, we comprehend the value of contentment with one's appearance. That's why our team specializes in Mohs surgery to assist you in obtaining a healthier and more attractive look. 

Our competent providers provide personalized attention and the most advanced treatments that will leave you looking and feeling great. Contact us now for additional details or to arrange a visit - let us assist you in regaining your self-confidence!