Mohs Micrographic Surgery in London
Mohs surgery is the most advanced and precise way to treat certain skin cancers, especially on the face and other delicate areas. Dr Ian Logan is a fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon who provides expert care with the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy skin as possible
What is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a highly specialised technique used to treat certain skin cancers. It allows the surgeon to remove the cancer in stages, checking each layer under the microscope during the procedure. This step-by-step process ensures that all the cancer is removed while leaving as much healthy skin as possible intact.
It is particularly valuable for:
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Skin cancers on the face, ears, nose, lips, and eyelids.
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Recurrent cancers that have returned after previous treatment.
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Aggressive or ill-defined cancers where the edges are difficult to see.
Why Choose Mohs Surgery?
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Highest cure rates – up to 99% for many non-melanoma skin cancers.
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Tissue preservation – removes only what is necessary, helping to minimise scarring.
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Immediate results – each layer is checked on the same day while you wait.
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Reconstruction at the same visit – once the cancer is fully removed, the wound is repaired straight away.
The Patient Journey: Step by Step
Initial Consultation
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Your skin cancer diagnosis is confirmed and discussed in detail.
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Dr Logan explains why Mohs is the most suitable treatment and what the day will involve.
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You’ll have the chance to ask any questions and talk through risks and benefits.
On the Day of Surgery
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The area is cleaned and numbed with a local anaesthetic.
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The visible tumour is removed along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue.
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This layer is immediately processed and examined under the microscope.
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If cancer cells remain, another thin layer is removed from the exact area where cancer is still present.
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The process is repeated until the cancer is completely cleared.
Reconstruction
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Once clear margins are confirmed, the wound is repaired.
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Options include simple stitches, local skin flaps, or grafts.
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The goal is both complete cancer removal and the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Aftercare & Recovery
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A dressing is applied, and you’ll receive full written aftercare instructions.
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Stitches are usually removed after 5–14 days, depending on the site.
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Swelling and bruising are common for the first week, especially around the eyes.
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Most patients can resume light activities within a day or two, but should avoid strenuous exercise for 1–2 weeks.
Follow-Up
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A follow-up appointment ensures the wound is healing well.
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You’ll also be given a plan for ongoing skin checks to monitor for recurrence or new cancers.
Discover how Dr Ian Logan can help using Mohs Surgery
FAQ's
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How long does Mohs surgery take?
It varies depending on how many layers need to be removed. A straightforward case may take 2–3 hours, but more complex cancers can take most of the day.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
Yes. Mohs surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, so you’ll be awake but should not feel pain.
Will I have a scar?
All surgery leaves a scar, but Mohs surgery helps make it as small as possible. Reconstruction techniques are carefully chosen to optimise cosmetic results.
Is Mohs surgery painful afterwards?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort once the anaesthetic wears off. Simple painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen are usually enough.
Do I need someone to come with me?
Not always, but it’s often helpful. Because the day can be long, many patients prefer to have a friend or relative for support and transport.
What if the cancer is larger than expected?
Mohs surgery allows the team to adapt on the day, removing exactly what is needed. Reconstruction is tailored to the final wound size.
What is the recovery time?
Most people return to normal daily activities within a few days, though visible healing can take 2–6 weeks depending on the complexity of the repair.
How likely is the cancer to come back?
Mohs has the highest cure rate of all skin cancer treatments. Recurrence is rare, but ongoing skin checks are important as new cancers can develop in other areas.