Expert Care at Dehesa Dermatology in Clovis, CA
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, but when detected early and treated properly, it is highly curable. One of the most advanced and effective treatments available today is Mohs micrographic surgery — a precise, tissue-sparing procedure that offers the highest cure rate for many types of skin cancer.
At Dehesa Dermatology, patients in Clovis and the surrounding Central Valley receive expert evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment — including Mohs surgery — in a compassionate and professional setting, by a board-certified Mohs Surgeon. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with skin cancer, understanding your treatment options is the first step toward peace of mind.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a highly specialized procedure used to treat certain types of skin cancer. Unlike traditional excision, which removes a visible tumor along with a predetermined margin of surrounding tissue, Mohs surgery removes cancer layer by layer and examines each layer under a microscope in real time.
This precise approach allows the surgeon to:
- Remove all cancerous cells
- Preserve as much healthy tissue as possible
- Achieve the highest possible cure rate
Because of its accuracy, Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating many non-melanoma skin cancers.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is most often used to treat:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Certain early or carefully selected melanomas
- Recurrent skin cancers
- Skin cancers with poorly defined borders
- Skin cancers located in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas (face, ears, nose, lips, eyelids, scalp, hands)
Why Mohs Surgery Is So Effective
1. Highest Cure Rate
- Up to 99% cure rate for new basal cell carcinomas
- Up to 94–97% cure rate for recurrent cancers
2. Tissue Preservation
Because only cancerous tissue is removed, more healthy skin is preserved — especially important in delicate areas like the face.
3. Immediate Results
Tissue is examined during the procedure, so patients leave knowing the cancer has been fully removed.
4. Reduced Recurrence Risk
The meticulous examination process significantly lowers the chance the cancer will return.
What to Expect During Mohs Surgery
At Dehesa Dermatology, patient comfort and safety are top priorities. Here’s what typically happens:
Step 1: Local Anesthesia
The treatment area is numbed to ensure comfort.
Step 2: Removal of Visible Tumor
The surgeon removes the visible portion of the skin cancer.
Step 3: Tissue Mapping & Microscopic Examination
The removed tissue is carefully mapped and examined under a microscope to identify any remaining cancer cells.
Step 4: Additional Layers (If Needed)
If cancer cells are detected, another precise layer is removed only from the affected area. This process continues until no cancer cells remain.
Step 5: Reconstruction
Once the area is cancer-free, the wound is repaired. Depending on the size and location, this may involve:
- Simple stitches
- A skin flap
- A skin graft
- Or allowing the area to heal naturally
Most procedures are completed in a single visit.
Recovery After Mohs Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the size and location of the treated area. Most patients can:
- Resume light activities within 24–48 hours
- Return to normal activities within a few days
- Expect mild swelling or bruising that resolves within 1–2 weeks
Your provider at Dehesa Dermatology will give detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize scarring.
Comprehensive Mohs Surgery Q&A
Q: Is Mohs surgery painful?
A: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during surgery. Mild soreness afterward can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: While each removal stage takes only minutes, the microscopic examination takes time. Plan to spend several hours at the office. Most cases are completed in one day.
Q: Will I have a scar?
A: Any surgical procedure can leave a scar. However, Mohs surgery minimizes tissue removal, which often results in a smaller and more cosmetically favorable scar. Reconstruction techniques are carefully chosen to optimize appearance and healing.
Q: Who is a good candidate for Mohs surgery?
A: Mohs surgery is often recommended for:
- Skin cancers on the face or sensitive areas
- Large or aggressive tumors
- Recurrent skin cancers
- Cancers with unclear borders
A dermatology provider will determine if it’s the right option for you.
Q: Is Dr. Dehesa a Board-certified Mohs Surgeon?
A: Yes. Dr. Dehesa is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon in the USA and Europe, with decades of experience doing Mohs surgery.
Q: Is Mohs surgery safe for older adults?
A: Yes. Because it uses local anesthesia and is performed in-office, it is generally safe for elderly patients and those who may not tolerate general anesthesia well.
Q: How should I prepare for the procedure?
A: You may be advised to:
- Eat a normal meal beforehand
- Take regular medications unless instructed otherwise
- Arrange transportation if the treated area affects vision or mobility
Q: What happens if cancer spreads deeper?
A: Mohs surgery is specifically designed to track and remove cancer at its roots. If deeper involvement is discovered, your dermatologist will discuss further treatment options.
Q: Will insurance cover Mohs surgery?
A: Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover Mohs surgery when medically necessary. It is best to verify specific coverage details with your insurance provider.
Q: How can I prevent future skin cancer?
A: Prevention strategies include:
- Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily
- Avoiding peak sun hours
- Wearing protective clothing
- Scheduling annual skin exams
- Performing regular self-skin checks
Why Choose Dehesa Dermatology?
Choosing the right dermatology practice matters. At Dehesa Dermatology, patients receive:
- Comprehensive skin cancer treatments by a board-certified dermatologist/Mohs surgeon
- Advanced diagnostic techniques
- Personalized treatment plans
- Compassionate, patient-focused care
- Expertise in medical and surgical dermatology
Early detection saves lives — and expert treatment ensures the best possible outcome.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’ve noticed a suspicious lesion, received a skin cancer diagnosis, or need a professional skin evaluation, Dehesa Dermatology is here to help.
Contact Information
Dehesa Dermatology
978 N Temperance Ave
Clovis, CA 93611
📞 Phone: (559) 951-9000
🌐 Website: dehesadermatology.com