Surgical Services
Specializing in advanced surgical dermatology, Elite Skin offers expert skin cancer treatments and reconstructive procedures with a focus on Mohs micrographic surgery. Dr. Bergman is double board-certified in dermatology and micrographic surgery and cutaneous oncology dedicated to providing precise, effective, and compassionate care to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs surgery is the gold standard for treating skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). This highly precise, tissue-sparing technique allows us to remove cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. With a 99% cure rate for certain skin cancers, Mohs surgery provides the highest level of success while minimizing scarring. The decision to use Mohs depends on multiple factors, including the type, location, size, and aggressiveness of the skin cancer.
While Mohs surgery is unmatched in precision and cure rates for high-risk skin cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas, it is not always the necessary or the best approach for every patient. My goal as a Mohs surgeon is to ensure that each patient receives the highest quality care possible based on a patient’s specific diagnosis, needs, and desires. If Mohs surgery isn’t needed, rest assured that other treatments can still provide excellent results with minimal risk.
What to expect:
Mohs surgery is a time-intensive and resource-heavy procedure, as it requires real-time removal of a skin cancer and microscopic analysis. Plan to spend three to four hours with us on your day of surgery. Every day, there will be outlier patients that take more or less time. Depending on your unique medical background and skin cancer your pre-operative and post-operative instructions may be different. Our team will give you your tailored information.
Skin Cancer Excision & Removal
Mohs is especially beneficial for skin cancers on cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas like the face, ears, nose, lips, or hands, where tissue preservation is critical. But for a small lesion on the trunk, arms, or legs, a simple excision with standard margins is often sufficient and may heal just as well without the additional steps of Mohs.
Some Skin Cancers Can Be Treated with Simpler Excisions
A standard surgical excision is sufficient for small, low-risk basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in non-critical areas. This involves removing the cancerous tissue with a safety margin and closing the wound. For non-aggressive tumors, a simple excision can be just as effective as Mohs.
Superficial Skin Cancers May Not Require Surgery at All
Certain skin cancers, such as superficial basal cell carcinoma or early squamous cell carcinoma in situ, may respond well to non-surgical treatments like:
- Topical chemotherapy (e.g., 5-fluorouracil, imiquimod)
- Electrodessication and curettage (ED&C)
These treatments can be effective for thin, superficial tumors where surgery might not be necessary.
Mohs Surgery Is Not Always Needed for Melanoma
A standard surgical excision is sufficient for small, low-risk basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in non-critical areas. This involves removing the cancerous tissue with a safety margin and closing the wound. For non-aggressive tumors, a simple excision can be just as effective as Mohs.
Reconstructive Surgery
Following skin cancer removal, we offer a range of reconstructive options to restore form, function and appearance. From simple wound closures to skin grafts and flap techniques, we prioritize an aesthetic and functional restoration of your skin. While there is no scarless surgery we strive to optimize your surgical scar to the best of our abilities.
Benign Lesion & Cyst Removal
In addition to skin cancer treatment, we provide surgical removal of benign skin growths, including cysts, lipomas, and other non-cancerous tumors. Our procedures are designed to be minimally invasive, ensuring a quick recovery with excellent cosmetic results.
Scar Revision & Cosmetic Procedures
For patients concerned about post-surgical scarring, we offer scar revision techniques, including injections, laser therapy, and surgical scar improvement. Our goal is to enhance your skin’s appearance and help you regain confidence in your skin.
