Mohs surgery is a specialized technique used to treat skin cancer. This procedure involves the precise removal of cancerous tissue from the surface of the skin and provides a high success rate for treating skin cancer. If you’re interested in a career as a Mohs surgeon, this step-by-step guide will help you understand the process for becoming a precision skin cancer specialist.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a specialized procedure used to treat skin cancer. This technique involves the precise removal of cancerous tissue from the surface of the skin, while making sure only healthy tissue remains. Unlike many other forms of skin cancer treatment, Mohs surgery can be completed in a single appointment and offers a high success rate for treating skin cancer.
What Education and Training Is Required to Become a Mohs Surgeon?
To become a Mohs surgeon, you must have an MD or DO degree and complete a fellowship in Mohs surgery. Most fellowships are one to two years in length and provide comprehensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. Fellowships also teach Mohs surgeons the skills necessary to perform delicate, precise surgery.
What Are the Steps to Becoming a Mohs Surgeon?
1. Complete a medical degree
The first step to becoming a Mohs surgeon is to obtain a medical degree. You can pursue an MD or DO degree at any accredited medical school.
2. Complete a residency
After completing a medical degree, you must complete a residency in dermatology or plastic surgery. This typically takes three to five years, depending on the program.
3. Obtain board certification
After completing a residency, you must obtain board certification in dermatology or plastic surgery. This is a lengthy process and usually involves taking a comprehensive exam.
4. Find a fellowship
Once you have obtained board certification, you must find a fellowship in Mohs surgery. Fellowships are typically one to two years in length and provide comprehensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
5. Become a Mohs surgeon
Once you have completed a fellowship in Mohs surgery, you can begin practicing as a Mohs surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Mohs Surgeon
How long does it take to become a Mohs surgeon?
It typically takes seven to nine years to become a Mohs surgeon. This includes four years of medical school, three to five years of residency, and one to two years of fellowship training.
Is Mohs surgery a dangerous procedure?
No. Mohs surgery is a precise and minimally invasive procedure that is highly effective in treating skin cancer.
Is it difficult to find a fellowship in Mohs surgery?
It can be difficult to find a fellowship in Mohs surgery, as there are only a few programs available. It is important to start the process early and make sure to apply to a number of programs to increase the chances of being accepted.
Do I need to specialize in dermatology or plastic surgery to become a Mohs surgeon?
Yes. To become a Mohs surgeon, you must specialize in either dermatology or plastic surgery.
What kind of training does a Mohs surgeon receive?
During a fellowship in Mohs surgery, a Mohs surgeon receives comprehensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. This includes training in the precise and delicate techniques used to perform Mohs surgery.
Conclusion
Becoming a Mohs surgeon is a lengthy process that requires several years of training and specialized education. However, Mohs surgery is an invaluable technique for treating skin cancer, and those who pursue a career as a Mohs surgeon can help improve the lives of many patients.
