Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in people in the US, affecting nearly 5 million Americans each year. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Both types can become invasive, and can lead to severe health problems, or even death if left untreated.

The most effective treatment method for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma is Mohs surgery. Mohs surgery is a surgical technique which involves the excision of the tumor in stages until the cancer cells are completely removed. Mohs surgery is minimally invasive, and is performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia, rather than general anesthesia. This means the patient is conscious throughout the procedure and does not have to fast before to the procedure.

Mohs surgeons are dermatologists who complete extra training during a fellowship program. Dr. Christopher Messana at Elevated Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center in Parker, CO, completed his Mohs fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic, which consistently ranks in the top 3 institutions in the United States. Contact Elevated Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center at 720-851-5200.