false

Skin Cancer Treatments and Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is the most effective skin cancer treatment for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. You receive care from a skilled dermatologist who has advanced training in Mohs surgery, pathology (lab tests), and reconstructive surgery.
style
palette-deep-blue
showJumplinks
true

World-class expertise in skin cancer treatments

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common non-melanoma skin cancers. They often appear in areas that get a lot of sun exposure, such as your head, face, ears, neck, and arms.

We offer a full range of skin cancer treatments, including Mohs surgery, which cures 99% of these skin cancers. Additionally, we treat rare adnexal cancers in the skin. We were one of the first in the region to offer Mohs surgery, providing our team with deep expertise you can trust.

center
tertiary
internal-arrow
Part of Dermatology
/content/unified-xwalk/en/services/dermatology
style
palette-white
showJumplinks
true

Personalized care you can trust

Our dermatologists listen to your concerns to provide a customized skin cancer treatment plan that protects your health and appearance.
Comprehensive skin cancer treatments

The skin cancer treatment you need depends on your unique diagnosis. Precancerous skin lesions (actinic keratosis) and some skin cancers may not require Mohs surgery. We offer a range of skin cancer treatments, including:

  • Chemical peels
  • Cryotherapy
  • Electrodessication and curettage (ED&C)
  • Immune response modifiers
  • Immunotherapy
  • Laser surgery
  • Photodynamic therapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Systemic, intralesional, or topical chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy

We also provide comprehensive skin cancer screenings for patients at high risk, including those with weakened immune systems due to medications or prior cancer and those with inherited genetic conditions that increase cancer risk.

Mohs surgery benefits

Benefits of Mohs surgery include:

  • Exceptional 99% cure rate for untreated basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma
  • Cure rate of 94% for recurring, previously treated skin cancers
  • Minimal scarring with up to 60% less tissue loss compared to traditional surgery
  • Staged procedure that takes place in one visit with an on-site lab, making care more convenient
What to expect with Mohs surgery

To determine if Mohs surgery is right for you, a dermatologist will review your medical history and examine the skin lesion. You may also get a skin biopsy.

Mohs surgery is an outpatient procedure that can take several hours. During the procedure, your provider:

  • Numbs the treatment site by injecting a local anesthetic
  • Surgically removes the cancerous lesion and a thin surrounding layer of normal tissue
  • Examines the tissue under a microscope for signs of cancer cells while you wait
  • Removes another thin layer of tissue if cancer cells are present in the examined tissue
  • Continues to examine and remove tissue layers until there are no more cancer cells in the examined tissue

If treatment involves removing a large section of skin, you may need a skin graft. This reconstructive surgery may take place immediately after Mohs surgery with the same provider.

style
palette-deep-blue
showJumplinks
true
titleJumplinks
Our approach

Treatments for all types of skin cancers

We offer the latest evidence-backed treatments for all types of skin cancers, including precancerous conditions.
style
palette-white
showJumplinks
true
titleJumplinks
Conditions and treatments

Our specialists

No matter what disease or condition you have, Mass General Brigham has specialists near you who can help.
primary
internal
Find a Mohs surgery specialist
/content/unified-xwalk/en/search/doctors/results#provider.specialties.name:Mohs%20Surgery
style
palette-white
showJumplinks
true
titleJumplinks
Specialists

Skin cancer clinical trials and research

Our dermatologists are active in research to find better, more effective ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat skin cancer. You may be able to participate in a clinical trial and try promising new therapies not widely available elsewhere.
Scientist working in laboratory with pipette equipment.
tertiary
external
Search clinical trials
https://clinicaltrials.gov/
style
palette-light-teal
showJumplinks
true
As a regional leader in dermatology services, we offer specialized care to support the health of patients affected by or at risk for skin cancer. We also coordinate with other programs across our system to provide comprehensive treatment.

  • Cancer Institute

    Learn about how the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute delivers expert cancer care for common and complex cancers, advancing new treatments through research and clinical trials.

  • Dermatology

    Our dermatologists care for a wide range of hair, skin, and nail concerns, from acne to nail infections, hair loss, and skin cancer. Schedule an appointment.

  • Melanoma Risk and Prevention

    We offer comprehensive services for early melanoma detection in people with high risk factors. We also treat early-stage melanoma. Learn how we can help you.

  • Dermatology

    Our dermatologists care for a wide range of hair, skin, and nail concerns, from acne to nail infections, hair loss, and skin cancer. Schedule an appointment.

  • Cancer Institute

    Learn about how the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute delivers expert cancer care for common and complex cancers, advancing new treatments through research and clinical trials.

  • General Surgery

    Access advanced surgical procedures from world-renowned surgeons across New England at Mass General Brigham.

  • Melanoma Risk and Prevention

    We offer comprehensive services for early melanoma detection in people with high risk factors. We also treat early-stage melanoma. Learn how we can help you.

  • General Dermatology

    We offer the region’s most extensive range of general dermatology services for all types of skin, hair, and nail conditions. See how we can help you.

  • Merkel Cell Carcinoma Program

    A diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma calls for expert, specialized care. Our internationally recognized team provides advanced therapies and personalized support. We’re here for you from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

  • Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery Program

    Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery is performed to reshape structures in the head and neck including the nose, ears, chin, cheekbones, lips, hair and neckline.

  • Center for Cutaneous (Skin) Cancers

    The Mass General Brigham Center for Cutaneous (Skin) Cancers offers the latest research, advanced therapies, and support services. Learn more about our approach.

  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

    Access expert plastic and reconstructive surgery at Mass General Brigham. Our team of surgeons performs safe, advanced procedures.

style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false
titleJumplinks
Services and programs

Contact Skin Cancer Treatments and Mohs Surgery

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
Phone

Brigham and Women's Hospital
617-983-4626

Massachusetts General Hospital
617-726-1869

Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital
617-983-7324

Martha's Vineyard Hospital
508-693-8183

Mass Eye and Ear
617-573-3954

Nantucket Cottage Hospital
508-825-1000

International
International Patient Services
style
palette-light-teal
showJumplinks
true
titleJumplinks
Contact