What is Mohs micrographic surgery?

Mohs micrographic surgery is the most precise and effective treatment available for many types of skin cancer, in particular basal cell carcinoma.

Unlike conventional surgery, where a margin of tissue is removed and sent to an external laboratory for analysis, Mohs surgery allows the surgeon to examine 100% of the surgical margin during the procedure. This enables complete removal of the cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Mohs surgery is particularly valuable for skin cancers occurring on cosmetically and functionally important areas such as the head and neck. It is also commonly recommended for recurrent, large, aggressive, or poorly defined skin cancers.

What happens on the day of surgery?

Mohs surgery is performed under local anaesthetic and you remain awake throughout the procedure.

Step 1: Preparation

Your surgeon will review the treatment plan, answer any remaining questions, and administer local anaesthetic.

Step 2: Removal of the visible cancer

A thin layer of tissue containing the visible skin cancer is removed.

Step 3: Laboratory analysis

The tissue is immediately processed in our onsite Mohs laboratory. The surgeon then examines the entire edge and underside of the specimen under the microscope.

Step 4: Additional stages (if required)

If any cancer cells remain, their exact location is identified on a surgical map and only the affected area is removed.

This process is repeated until all cancer has been cleared.

Step 5: Reconstruction

Once complete removal has been confirmed, the wound is repaired. Depending on the size and location of the defect, this may involve:

  • Direct closure with stitches.
  • A local skin flap.
  • A skin graft.
  • Allowing the wound to heal naturally where appropriate.
  • Closure with another surgeon (eg. Oculoplastic surgeon)

How long will I be at the clinic?

Most patients spend several hours at the clinic.

The surgical stages themselves are usually relatively short, but laboratory processing and microscopic examination take time. Some patients require only one stage, while others may need multiple stages to achieve complete clearance.

Because it is impossible to predict in advance how many stages will be required, we recommend keeping the entire day free.

Preparing for your appointment

To make your day as comfortable as possible, we recommend:

Before you attend

  • Eat a normal breakfast unless advised otherwise
  • Continue your regular medications unless instructed differently
  • Bring a list of your medications
  • Avoid scheduling important commitments later that day

What to wear

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing

Choose clothing that can be easily removed if your surgery is on the head, neck, or upper body

Avoid tight collars, polo necks, or restrictive garments

Wear comfortable footwear

Food and refreshments

You may wish to bring:

  • A light lunch or snacks
  • Reading material
  • A mobile phone, tablet, or laptop

After surgery

Most patients return home shortly after their procedure.

Because surgery may involve dressings, swelling, and occasionally a more prolonged day than expected, we recommend arranging for someone to accompany you home or collect you after treatment.

You should plan for a quiet evening and avoid strenuous activity until advised by your surgeon (typically at least one week).

Detailed postoperative instructions will be provided before you leave the clinic.

Frequently asked questions

Will I be asleep?

No. Mohs surgery is typically performed under local anaesthetic while you are awake and comfortable.

Will I have stitches?

Many patients require stitches, although the type of repair depends on the size and location of the wound.

Is Mohs surgery painful?

The local anaesthetic injection may cause brief discomfort. After this, the procedure is generally well tolerated. Most patients experience only mild postoperative discomfort.

What are the cure rates?

Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rates available for many skin cancers, typically up to 99% for primary basal cell carcinomas and very high cure rates for other suitable skin cancers.

Can I drive myself home?

Depending on the location and extent of surgery, some patients may be able to drive. However, we recommend arranging transport home wherever possible, particularly if surgery involves the face, eyelids, or a more complex reconstruction.

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Centre of excellence

The Surgical Institute Dublin team

Every consultation, procedure, and follow-up at Surgical Institute Dublin is delivered by a specialist consultant.

Patient reviews


  • Surgical Institute Dublin is a very professional organisation providing excellent care in a purpose built facility. I was particularly impressed with the ‘See and Treat‘ consultation process and the exceptional people I encountered there!

    Ciaran Donnellan

  • Fantastic service from start to finish. Was able to book and be seen in short order, which is a rarity in Irish healthcare! Staff were very friendly and welcoming. Overall top quality experience.

    Paul Benson

  • Would highly recommend the new Surgical Institute Dublin! I was very worried about a skin lesion on my head and was amazed at how quickly they got me in for an appointment. The facility is completely modern and state-of-the-art. One of the best facilities in Europe!

    It was incredibly convenient to be able to see a top dermatologist and a plastic surgeon all in the same visit. Fantastic, efficient care.

    Conor Doyle

  • Excellent experience. Very accessible, staff excellent and I was able to get treated straight away after my consultation.

    Andrew Lynam

  • Very easy process from booking to consultation and procedure. Lovely staff, professional and efficient service. Clean and modern facilities. Couldn’t fault the place.

    Brendan Power

  • This see-and-treat service is absolutely fantastic! I was very impressed with the whole experience. Dr Jennifer Boggs and Dr Serena Martin were both kind, lovely and highly professional. I had my full body mole check and a small procedure done in one visit. The service was incredibly efficient. Such a great time saver! All the staff were friendly, smiling and welcoming! Highly recommend!