When it comes to treating skin cancer, precision is everything. At Columbia Skin Clinic, we are proud to offer advanced Mohs surgery to provide our patients with the highest standard of care, right here in the Midlands.
Whether you’ve just received a skin cancer diagnosis or are exploring treatment options, here’s why Mohs surgery could be the best—and most precise—choice for your skin health.
What is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized, highly effective technique used to treat basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and some early melanomas. It involves removing thin layers of cancerous skin tissue one at a time and immediately examining each layer under a microscope to check for remaining cancer cells. This process is repeated until no more cancer is detected.
Why it matters:
This method ensures that only the cancerous tissue is removed, preserving as much healthy skin as possible—especially important for visible areas like the face, ears, and scalp.
Why Mohs Surgery is Ideal for the Midlands Community
South Carolinians, especially in the Greater Midlands, are no strangers to sun exposure. Farmers, first responders, teachers on playground duty, and anyone who works or plays outdoors is at higher risk for developing skin cancer. Mohs surgery is ideal for treating sun-damaged skin in high-risk areas or recurring cancers, with a cure rate of up to 99% for certain types.
On-Site Means Higher Quality & Faster Results
Columbia Skin Clinic is proud to be one of the only dermatology practices in South Carolina with Mohs surgery performed entirely on-site. Here’s what that means for you:
- Faster Results: Your tissue is examined immediately by a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, so you don’t have to wait days or weeks for lab results.
- Fewer Appointments: Because we have everything on-site, including our own lab and histotechnicians, you can complete your procedure in one visit.
- Expert Care: Our Mohs team, led by Dr. Jim Chow, provides unmatched surgical precision, experience, and care—all under one roof.
- Comfort & Continuity: You’ll receive seamless care in a familiar setting, supported by the same team you know and trust.
Who Is a Candidate for Mohs Surgery?
You may be a candidate if you have:
- Skin cancer in a cosmetically sensitive area (face, neck, hands, etc.)
- A recurrent or aggressive form of skin cancer
- A cancer that was not fully removed by a previous treatment
- A high-risk tumor, including some melanomas
If you’re unsure, our dermatologists will evaluate your case and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Mohs surgery is typically done in one day under local anesthesia. After each layer of tissue is removed, you’ll wait comfortably while the surgeon examines the sample. This process repeats until the area is clear of cancer. Reconstruction of the surgical site is done the same day, either by your Mohs surgeon or in consultation with a reconstructive specialist, depending on your needs.
Most patients are relieved to learn the recovery process is smooth and the results are both medically and cosmetically successful.
Your Skin Health, Our Priority
At Columbia Skin Clinic, we believe you deserve the best care, close to home. That’s why we’re proud to offer Mohs surgery right here in Columbia, without sending your samples off-site or requiring you to visit another facility.
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, or if you’re due for a screening, trust Columbia Skin Clinic to provide the care you need with the expertise you deserve.
