Mohs Micrographic Surgery
The Most Precise Treatment for Skin Cancer
Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is the most precise surgical technique for removing skin cancer, with cure rates of up to 99% for primary tumors. Unlike standard excision, Mohs surgery examines 100% of the surgical margins in real time, ensuring complete tumor removal while preserving maximum healthy tissue.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery was developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs in the 1930s. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the visible tumor along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue, maps it precisely, and examines 100% of the margins under a microscope - all during the same procedure. This process repeats until all margins are completely clear of cancer cells.
Why Choose Mohs Surgery?
| Criteria | Mohs Surgery | Standard Excision |
|---|---|---|
| Cure rate (primary tumor) | Up to 99% | 90-95% |
| Cure rate (recurrent tumor) | Up to 96% | 50-65% |
| Margin examination | 100% of margins examined | 1-5% of margins examined |
| Tissue preservation | Maximum preservation | Fixed safety margins (4-6mm) |
| Cosmetic outcome | Optimal | Depends on excision size |
| Best suited for | Face, head, neck, functional areas | Small tumors on body |
Who Needs Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is particularly recommended for:
How Does Mohs Surgery Work?
Preparation & Anesthesia
The surgeon marks the tumor and injects local anesthesia. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia only - no general anesthesia required.
First Layer Removal
The surgeon removes the visible tumor along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue.
Mapping & Processing
The removed tissue is precisely mapped and sent for frozen section processing in the adjacent pathology lab.
Microscopic Examination
The surgeon personally examines the tissue under a microscope, checking whether all tumor margins are clear.
Additional Layers (if needed)
If cancer cells are found at any margin, the surgeon removes another layer only from the affected area. This process repeats until all margins are completely clear.
Reconstruction
After complete tumor removal, the surgeon performs aesthetic reconstruction of the area.
Preparing for Surgery
- Eat a light breakfast, continue regular medications
- No creams, makeup, or jewelry near the surgical site
- Bring ID and insurance card, arrive 15 min early
- Arrange a ride home
- Wear comfortable clothes, plan for a full day
Recovery & Aftercare
- Minor bleeding is normal - gauze pressure for 20 min
- Paracetamol for pain; no Aspirin/Ibuprofen for 2 weeks
- Ice 48 hours; daily bandage change with Vaseline
- No pools, sauna, or strenuous activity for 2 weeks
- Suture removal in 7–14 days
Insurance & Health Basket Coverage
Mohs surgery for BCC and SCC in the head and neck area is included in the Israeli health basket. Maccabi members can undergo the procedure at Assuta Hospital (Ramat HaHayal or HaShalom) through their health fund. Clalit members can have the procedure at HMC after obtaining Form 17. For tumors on the body and limbs, supplemental insurance may be required. We recommend confirming coverage with your health fund in advance.
Research & Publications
Dr. Kaplan is an active researcher in the field. In 2025, Dr. Yehonatan Kaplan and Prof. Baruch Kaplan published a review article in the Israel Medical Association Journal (IMAJ) on indications for Mohs surgery outside the head and neck area - original Israeli research that contributes to the global body of knowledge in dermatologic surgery.
Kaplan, B., & Kaplan, Y. (2025). Mohs micrographic surgery: indications for non-head and neck tumors. Israel Medical Association Journal, 27(6), 395-397.