What to Expect Before, During, and After Mohs Surgery

If you’ve been told you need Mohs surgery, it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous or unsure about what comes next. At Dr. Dubow Dermatology in Beverly Hills, CA, Dr. Brian Dubow and his expert team are committed to making the process as comfortable and effective as possible, every step of the way. Known for precision and patient-focused care, their approach to Mohs surgery combines advanced technology with a gentle, supportive touch.

Before Your Mohs Surgery

Preparation for Mohs surgery is relatively simple. Once it’s determined that this is the best treatment for your skin cancer—commonly for basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma—you’ll receive detailed instructions from Dr. Dubow’s office. Typically, you won’t need to stop eating or taking most medications beforehand, but you should plan for the possibility of a longer appointment, as the procedure may take several hours depending on the complexity. Wear comfortable clothing, avoid makeup or skincare products near the treatment site, and bring something to read or do while waiting between stages.

During the Procedure

Mohs surgery is performed in-office using local anesthesia, so you’ll be awake but comfortable. The procedure involves removing very thin layers of skin one at a time, which are then examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. This process continues until no cancer cells remain, ensuring the smallest amount of healthy tissue is removed while maximizing success. What makes Mohs surgery so unique is its high cure rate and tissue-sparing technique. You’ll wait between layers, this is where that book or podcast comes in handy, but Dr. Dubow’s staff will keep you informed throughout, so you always know what’s happening.

After the Procedure

Recovery from Mohs surgery is typically smooth. Once the cancer is fully removed, Dr. Dubow will close the wound with stitches or allow it to heal naturally, depending on the size and location. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to help the site heal properly and minimize scarring. You may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising for a few days, but over-the-counter pain relief is usually all that’s needed. Follow-up appointments ensure your skin is healing as expected and allow Dr. Dubow to monitor for any signs of recurrence.

Skilled Care You Can Trust

When it comes to skin cancer treatment, experience and precision matter. At Dr. Dubow Dermatology in Beverly Hills, CA, Dr. Brian Dubow provides expert Mohs surgery with a focus on safety, comfort, and long-term results. To schedule a consultation or learn more about what to expect, call (310) 888-4070.