Lip Cancer Question- Re MOHS and DR Qualifications.

my dad needs squamous remover from his lip. about 2 cm. is it best to go with derm or plastics to do this? I have been referred to a DR who is a derm but has experience in reconstruction. since it is the face I want to be sure.

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by GM in NJ

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Mohs surgery with plastic surgery reconstruction

An oft used ideal approach for skin cancer on the lip is Mohs surgery to remove the tumor and then a plastic surgeon to minimize the scar associated with reconstruction.

Steven Hacker, MD

3 reviews

West Palm Beach Dermatologic Surgeon

Who should remove your skin cancer and who should reconstruct the defect left after removal?

Who should remove your skin cancer and who should reconstruct the defect left after removal? Definitely for a moderately sized upper lip skin cancer, Mohs is the best option for complete removal of the tumor and preservation of as much normal skin as possible. The vast majority of Mohs surgeons are dermatologists but seek a Mohs surgeon who also has fellowship training in Mohs surgery. These surgeons are also typically highly trained in reconstruction. Review photos of your Mohs... more

Skin Cancer on the Lip: Mohs vs. Plastics

In my opinion Mohs surgery will give you the best opportunity to cure the skin cancer. Mohs surgery works by tracing out the roots of the skin cancer. When a skin cancer invovles an area with a limited amount of tissue for reconstruction (like the lips,ears, eyelid or nose), Mohs is a good option because the surgeon starts with a very narrow margin. Thus, the tumor is traced out but the healthy tissue is preserved. Also, a squamous cell carcinoma can be a dangerous skin cancer on the... more

Fellowship Tranined Mohs Surgeons Are Trained In Reconstructive Surgery

There are many physicians that perform Mohs surgery, but not all have the qualifications and have completed a fellowship training program. As a dermatologist who has completed a fellowship in Mohs surgery sponsored by the American College of Mohs Surgery, I can tell you that a fundamental part of my training centered around reconstructive surgery. During my fellowship I completed over 2000 reconstructive surgeries for skin cancers primarily found on the face. This included areas such as the... more

Derms or plastic surgeons and Mohs

I have been a dermatologist for nearly 30 years and have been Mohs trained and board certified. I have done tens of thousands of Mohs in my career. I have done extensive reconstructions and repairs. Not all Mohs surgeons have done this much, but many have. You can look at the American Society for Mohs Surgery website to see who in your area is board certified by them. That's a good place to start. You can also ask the doctor whom you were referred to. Most qualified physicians... more