How Dermatologists Determine Candidacy for Mohs Surgery

Skin infected probably a skin cancer with redness

Mohs micrographic surgery is one of the most effective and precise treatments for certain types of skin cancer. At Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center, P.A., with offices in the area of Winston-Salem, NC, this technique allows our dermatologists to remove cancerous tissue layer by layer while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. However, not every skin cancer requires this approach. Determining who is an ideal candidate for Mohs surgery is a careful process that considers the cancer’s type, location, and other personal factors.

When Mohs Surgery Is Recommended

Mohs surgery is typically recommended for skin cancers that pose a higher risk of recurrence or that appear in areas where preserving cosmetic and functional integrity is important, such as the face, ears, nose, lips, and hands. Dermatologists may suggest the procedure for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and select other rare skin cancers that are large, aggressive, or have indistinct borders.

How Dermatologists Evaluate Each Case

During an evaluation, the dermatologist will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and assess the skin lesion’s size, depth, and growth pattern. A biopsy confirms the diagnosis and identifies the specific type of cancer cells involved. From there, your dermatologist determines whether Mohs surgery, or another form of treatment such as excision, cryotherapy, or topical therapy, is most appropriate.

For patients who have already undergone treatment and experienced recurrence, Mohs surgery may also be considered the best next step due to its precision and high cure rate.

A Personalized Treatment Plan

At the Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center, every patient receives an individualized care plan based on medical needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic priorities. The practice’s board-certified dermatologists use the latest diagnostic technology and surgical techniques to ensure accurate evaluation and the best possible outcomes.

If Mohs surgery is recommended, patients are guided through what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. The goal is always clear communication, patient comfort, and confidence in the treatment plan.

Trust in Expertise and Experience

As a home for experienced providers serving the Winston-Salem community, Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center, P.A., has earned a reputation for excellence in skin cancer detection and treatment. If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or are concerned about a suspicious lesion, schedule a consultation and learn whether Mohs surgery is the right option for you. Call us at the following numbers:

Winston-Salem, NC: (336) 768-1280

Thomasville, NC: (336) 714-0238

Kernersville, NC: (336) 768-1280

Contact Us: For your convenience, you can send us a request to call you. We are unable to respond to requests via email or text.



Office Hours
Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center, P.A.

WINSTON-SALEM OFFICE
2020 N Peace Haven Road
Winston-Salem, NC 27106
Phone: (336) 768-1280
Fax: 336-760-8443

Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center, P.A.

THOMASVILLE OFFICE
207 Old Lexington Road
Thomasville, NC 27360
Phone: (336) 714-0238
Fax: 336-760-8443

Westgate Dermatology and Laser Center, P.A.

KERNERSVILLE OFFICE
280 Broad St Suite D
Kernersville NC 27284
Phone: (336) 768-1280
Fax: 336-760-8443