What is Mohs Surgey?

Mohs surgery was initially developed by Dr. Fredrich Mohs. It is a surgery that allows a skilled dermatologic surgeon to remove a skin cancer, layer by layer microscopically examining each section. This allows complete removal of the cancer, sparing the maximum amount of healthy skin.

It provides the highest cure rate for removal of skin cancer (97-99%). Mohs surgery is performed with local anesthetic only.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

How should I prepare for Mohs Surgery?

  • Plan to spend the day with us.
  • Bring a light lunch.
  • Bring a book, iPad, magazine, light jacket.
  • Please do not bring children.

Should I continue my medication?

  • Take any regular medication prescribed by your physician. Discontinue any non-prescribed agents, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Aleve, herbal supplements, vitamin E, fish oil, ginko, garlic for 14 days prior to surgery.
  • Continue taking any blood thinning agents that your doctor prescribed, including Plavix, aspirin, Coumadin.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages two days before and after surgery.

What happens on the day of Mohs Surgery?

A medical history will be obtained, and you will sign an informed consent. Your regular medications will be checked, and any questions you have will be answered prior to surgery.

STEP 1: The skin around the cancer will be anesthetized (numbed), and the visible skin cancer will be removed.

STEP 2: A thin layer beyond the visible cancer will be surgically removed, processed, stained and examined microscopically. A bandage will be applied to the site, and you will be returned to a waiting area until this is completed. (This usually takes an hour to an hour and a half).

STEP 3: If cancer cells are still present, the above procedure will be repeated, taking tissue only from the site where the cancer cells remain.

Once the skin cancer is removed, we will discuss the closure of the wound with you.

How long can I expect to be in the office?

It is impossible to know how many “stages” a skin cancer may require until clear margins are present. Each stage takes about an hour. Usually, it takes 2-3 stages to clear most skin cancers. Please come prepared to spend the entire day with us.

How is the skin cancer site repaired?

After the cancer is “cleared”, we will discuss with you the best possible repair options that will allow the best cosmetic result. These may include:

• Suturing the wound

• Healing by secondary intention (no stitches)

• Skin flap or graft

• Referral to another specialist (usually a plastic surgeon or ENT)

What happens after surgery?

We will usually have you return 1-2 weeks after surgery. You should expect some swelling and bruising. There may be numbness around the site for up to a year after the surgery. While scarring cannot be prevented, every e ort will be made to minimize scarring. You will be given contact information should any problems arise after the surgery. Usually, this is minimal pain for the first 2-3 days after surgery.

Exercise and vigorous physical activity should be limited the first 2 weeks after surgery. Please discuss any concerns with our team.

Do I need to return for a follow up after Mohs Surgery?

Once you have had a skin cancer, you are at an increased risk for additional skin cancers (50% chance of developing another skin cancer). For this reason, it is very important to follow up with your general dermatologist on a regular basis.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Meet Dr. Arshanapalli

Ashish Arshanapalli, MD

Dr. Arshanapalli is a board-certified dermatologist and a member of the first ever class of board-certified Mohs surgeons. He is originally from Hoosier country- Indiana. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Southern Indiana and then went on to graduate at the top of his class at Indiana University School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago and then went on to do a fellowship specializing in Mohs micrographic surgery at the University of Wisconsin- the birthplace of Mohs surgery.

Dr. Arshanapalli enjoys all aspects of dermatology with a special focus on cutaneous oncology and reconstruction. In his spare time he enjoys golfing, exercise, traveling, and trying new and interesting foods.

Call today to schedule your consultation with United Dermatology Associates or our affiliated office, Mansfield Dermatology.

COMMUNITY LOVE

"I will never choose another dermatologist!'

- United Dermatology Associates Patient

SEE MORE REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS
THE UDA TEAM

Our team is standing by to help you achieve your skin goals.

Our patients across Texas and the United States know that the team Dr. Hoang has developed consists of compassionate medical experts with the knowledge and know-how to tackle dermatology's toughest challenges.

MEET OUR TEAM

Five convenient locations across Texas.

Promoting skin health throughout our state.

MANSFIELD OFFICE
817-539-0959
130 Regency pkwy
Mansfield, TX 76063

Get Directions

NORTH ARLINGTON OFFICE
817-539-0959
723 North Fielder Road, Suite C
Arlington, TX 76012-4697

Get Directions

BURLESON OFFICE
817-529-1753
780 NE Alsbury Blvd, Suite B
Burleson, TX 76028

Get Directions

FLOWER MOUND OFFICE
469-635-5990
4335 Windsor Centre Trail, Suite 110
Flower Mound, TX 75028

Get Directions

SOUTH ARLINGTON OFFICE
817-468-3131
3132 Matlock Rd, Suite 307
Arlington, TX 76015

Get Directions

Your journey begins here.

Thank you for visiting United Dermatology Associates! On behalf of Dr. Jeannine Hoang and her entire team, we’re so excited for the opportunity to learn about your goals, and your unique skin profile. Visit one of our five offices today to get started!