Mohs Micrographic Surgery

At Alta Vista Dermatology, we do all we can to educate patients about the dangers of skin cancer. We encourage patients to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 when outdoors regardless of the weather and to know the signs and symptoms of skin cancer. There are three types of skin cancer – basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. The deadliest form of skin cancer is melanoma.

An estimated 5 million people in the United States will be treated for skin cancer each year, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. At Alta Vista Dermatology in Highlands Ranch, CO, we specialize in Mohs micrographic surgery. This is the most effective treatment for skin cancer, offering the highest potential for a cure, even if the skin cancer was treated with another method previously. The history of this surgical technique dates back to the 1930s, and it was developed by Dr. Frederick Mohs. During Mohs surgery, the cancer is removed in stages one tissue layer at a time through a specialized technique. This often results in complete cancer removal.

You can be rest assured the Alta Vista Dermatology team would tailor a treatment plan to meet your needs and place you onto a path towards health and wellness. We provide full body skin examinations, which involve checking the body from head to toe for any suspicious growths.

In addition, we believe it is important to understand how to protect your skin. In more than 90 percent of the skin cancer cases each year, the chronic condition was caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Excessive sun exposure can also lead to premature aging, which includes wrinkles, lax skin, and discolored skin. Therefore, it is critical to protect your skin when outdoors. Ultraviolet rays are usually the strongest during midday hours so it is important to go outside early in the morning or in the evening. If you are outside, we recommend wearing sunscreen and carrying a sun umbrella.

We would be happy to talk with you further about skin cancer prevention. To learn more, call 303.888.6426 today.