Houston Dermatology Specialists
13114 FM 1960 Rd W, Suite 119
Houston, TX 77065
Phone: (713) 487-8233
Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
At Houston Dermatology Specialists in Cypress, Texas, double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Christopher Downing, M.D., FAAD, specializes in performing this surgery to treat skin cancer while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissue.
If you’re looking for the best Mohs surgeon, you can trust Dr. Downing’s expertise and credentials. He trained in an American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) accredited fellowship program and received detailed hands-on education in three important areas: 1) surgical removal of skin cancer tissue; 2) pathological examination of that tissue to determine when the skin cancer is completely removed; and 3) reconstructive surgery to achieve the best functional and cosmetic outcomes for patients.
Mohs micrographic surgery is an advanced technique that surgically treats skin cancer, especially in cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas. The Mohs procedure involves surgically removing the skin cancer layer by layer and examining the tissue under a microscope until healthy tissue is reached. The surgery has a high cure rate of up to 99%.
The Mohs approach offers several benefits over other techniques:
At Houston Dermatology Specialists, dermatologist Dr. Joel Byrne and double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon Dr. Christopher Downing are committed to improving your skin health and quality of life through personalized medical and cosmetic dermatology treatment and services. Your comfort, satisfaction, and results are our top priority, which is apparent from the exceptional level of personal and professional attention you receive from Dr. Byrne and Dr. Downing when you visit us at Houston Dermatology Specialists.
Dr. Downing is one of the top Mohs surgery doctors. He completed specialized fellowship training in the procedure and earned board certification in micrographic dermatological surgery in addition to his board certification in dermatology by the American Board of Dermatology. During his intensive fellowship, Dr. Downing performed thousands of Mohs surgery procedures and worked alongside Mohs specialists—surgeons, plastic surgeons, and dermatopathologists.
Mohs is ideal for people whose skin cancer:
Mohs surgery is typically performed to treat two of the most common types of sun-induced skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. However, other less common forms of skin cancer can also be treated with Mohs surgery including: Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP), Extramammary Paget’s Disease (EMPD), Sebaceous Carcinoma, Microcystic Adnexal Carcinoma (MAC), and Atypical Fibroxanthoma (AFX).
Basal Cell Carcinoma: A sun-induced skin cancer, often with a rolled border, that most commonly develops on areas of skin exposed to the sun. This is the most common form of cancer in the human body.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The second most common form of skin cancer characterized by a keratotic horn that is sometimes painful. Commonly develops from precancerous skin lesions called actinic keratoses.
Dr. Downing was professional, knowledgeable, and kind. Where other doctors have given me their ‘best guess’, Dr. Downing immediately outlined the steps we would take to reach a definitive diagnosis. I am beyond impressed and profoundly grateful.
Jill D., verified ZocDoc review
After numbing the area, Dr. Downing surgically removes the immediately visible part of the tumor.
The removed tissue is marked in 4 quadrants for reference and processed into slides.
Dr. Downing examines the slides under a microscope and identifies each quadrant with cancer cells remaining.
Additional skin tissue will be removed, as necessary, until only visibly healthy skin remains. Each layer of skin removed is called a “stage.” Most tumors are removed in 1 to 2 stages, but larger and more aggressive cancers may require more.
After removing all cancerous tissue, you and Dr. Downing will discuss healing and repairing the surgical site. Some surgical sites can heal naturally, while others may require stitches. Depending on the size and location of the area, a skin graft or skin flap may be necessary to achieve a better cosmetic result.
Continued observation of the surgical site is of the utmost importance. Regular skin cancer screenings are recommended for people who have had a history of skin cancer.
This video from the American College of Mohs Surgery provides additional insight into how the procedure is performed.
While you will be awake during and after surgery, it’s best to have a trusted friend or family member drive you home. Take it easy for the next couple of days and avoid any strenuous exercise.
Some swelling and bruising is expected after surgery. This generally begins to subside over 5 to 7 days. Applying an ice pack to the area during the first couple of days will keep swelling to a minimum. Post-operative discomfort is usually managed with over-counter-pain relief medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). You will be provided with detailed personal post-operative instructions before leaving the office.
The video below outlines general post-operative care instructions from the American College of Mohs Surgery.
To meet with Dr. Downing and his team, please request a consultation online or give us a call at (713) 487-8233. We look forward to meeting you.
