Mohs surgery and GentleCure are two of the top treatments for skin cancer, particularly for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. However, the treatments differ significantly in terms of the procedure details, recovery, and benefits.
At Elite Dermatology, our highly trained and experienced dermatologists specialize in the treatment of skin cancer. We work closely with our patients to determine the optimal treatment approach for their needs.
While it is best to consult with a qualified dermatologist regarding the best skin cancer treatment for you, understanding the differences between these two procedures is an important first step in the treatment process. The experts at Elite Dermatology have provided this blog comparing GentleCure and mohs surgery to help support you in making an informed decision for your care.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery involves the surgical removal of thin layers of skin to eliminate skin cancer lesions. To begin, a lidocaine anesthetic will be injected to numb the treatment area. The surgeon will then use precise surgical techniques to remove the first layer of skin with a scalpel. The excised tissue will then be examined to determine if additional skin must be removed. If so, the procedure will be repeated as needed until the skin cancer lesion has been completely eliminated.
Recovery and Aftercare
While mohs surgery is minimally invasive, it is still a surgical procedure, so you will need to plan for a recovery period. The treatment site will be bandaged at the conclusion of your procedure, and it is vital that you follow all post-procedure wound care instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent infection.
While care is taken to minimize scarring, in some cases, surgery can lead to scars that cause discomfort or are more noticeable than the patient prefers.
Benefits of Mohs Surgery
- High success rate – The procedure boasts a high cure rate, often cited as 99%.
- Out-patient procedure – Patients can typically return home the same day as their surgery.
- Precise – The precision of mohs surgery allows surgeons to preserve more healthy tissue than with other surgical techniques.
- Versatile – Mohs surgery can effectively target skin cancer lesions throughout the body, even in areas with minimal extra tissue, such as the face, hands, and feet.
GentleCure
GentleCure is a non-invasive skin cancer treatment utilizing Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT). This method targets cancer cells with precise doses of radiation, sparing surrounding healthy tissue and effectively eradicating skin cancer lesions without a single incision. Patients usually need a series of 21 sessions lasting about 10 minutes each.
During an IG-SRT session, you will lie back or sit in a chair. A protective shield with a cut out around the treatment site will be placed over you. X-ray energy will then be delivered to the treatment site.
Recovery and Aftercare
Because IG-SRT is non-invasive, there is no downtime after a GentleCure session. This means patients do not have to take any time away from their normal activities. There is also no scarring with this non-invasive skin cancer treatment.
As with any radiation therapy, side effects may include skin irritation or redness at the treatment site. These symptoms are temporary and typically resolve by the time you finish the recommended series of treatments.
Benefits of GentleCure
- High success rate – Treatment success rate is 99%.
- Non-surgical – GentleCure is a great option for patients who are not candidates for surgery or those who prefer a non-surgical option.
- Painless – IG-SRT requires no anesthesia, and there is no discomfort during the procedure.
- No downtime – Patients can resume their normal activities immediately after an IG-SRT session.
Learn More about Skin Cancer Treatment Options
To explore your skin cancer treatment options or to book a skin cancer screening, contact Elite Dermatology today. Elite Dermatology is proud to serve patients throughout the greater Houston area with practice locations in Kingwood, Pearland, River Oaks, Vintage Park, Fulshear, and Heights.