MOHS Surgery and Dermatologic Surgery

MOHS surgery in Israel offers two major advantages:

• Tissue preservation: By immediately examining the surgical margins during the procedure, surgeons can avoid unnecessary wide excisions. This allows for precise removal of cancerous tissue while conserving as much healthy tissue as possible, resulting in better aesthetic and functional outcomes.
• High cure rates: MOHS surgery achieves cure rates of 96% to 99% — the highest among all skin cancer treatment methods — thanks to thorough examination of 100% of the surgical margins and the ability to continue resection until clear margins are confirmed.

MOHS skin cancer surgery in Israel is considered the gold standard for removing skin cancer, especially in cosmetically and functionally critical areas such as the face, neck, hands, feet, and genitals. It is also recommended for recurrent tumors and high-risk lesions.

Outpatient Procedure

Most MOHS and dermatologic surgery in Israel is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. Patients are usually admitted in the morning and discharged the same day. There is no need for special preparation or fasting.

Suspicious skin lesions, non-healing wounds, and moles that have changed in color, shape, or size are examined and, if necessary, removed. The excised tissue is sent for histological analysis, with results typically available within 2–3 weeks.

After tumor removal, the resulting wound is closed using advanced techniques to ensure the best possible cosmetic result. Skin grafts may be used if needed. Israel’s dermatologic oncology and plastic surgery specialists at Ichilov are highly experienced in skin reconstruction, ensuring natural-looking results.

Developed in the 1930s by Dr. Frederic Mohs, this technique allows layer-by-layer removal of skin cancer while immediately examining the margins under a microscope. Unlike other methods, MOHS surgery in Israel ensures maximum preservation of healthy tissue and the highest rate of complete cancer removal.

This method is suitable for all types of skin cancer, especially deep or recurrent tumors that may involve nerves, blood vessels, and cartilage.

How MOHS Surgery Is Performed

The procedure involves multiple steps:

1. Tumor excision under local anesthesia – a quick process lasting a few minutes.
2. Microscopic examination – a technician freezes and prepares the tissue, which can take over an hour.
3. Margin assessment – the surgeon examines the slides to determine if more tissue needs to be removed.
4. Reconstruction – once the tumor is fully removed, a plastic surgeon closes the wound using aesthetic techniques.

In complex cases, reconstructive surgery may be postponed to a later date.

The procedure typically takes 3–4 hours but may last a full day depending on the tumor size. Scarring is minimal compared to other surgical methods and improves over time. Sun protection is essential during the first year to prevent discoloration.

Most patients experience little to no pain. If needed, painkillers are prescribed. While no treatment guarantees 100% cure, MOHS surgery without waiting significantly reduces the chance of recurrence.

If you need MOHS dermatologic surgery in Israel without queues or delays, the Ichilov Dermatologic Oncology Unit is ready to assist you. Contact us to learn more or begin your treatment journey.