Mohs Surgery & Skin Cancer
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Practice
Who performs my surgery?
Dr. Thomas Hocker performs your procedure with a specialized Mohs/OR team. Dr. Hocker is
board-certified and fellowship-trained in Mohs micrographic surgery
and complex facial reconstruction to optimize cancer control and cosmetic outcome.
What conditions do you treat?
Skin cancers and high-risk lesions.
Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, select melanoma in situ, atypical/dysplastic nevi, and challenging benign growths. We also manage high-risk surveillance (e.g., transplant/immunosuppressed patients).
Do I need a referral?
Not always. Many plans allow direct scheduling; some require a referral/authorization. Call with your insurance card and we’ll verify.
Quick Answers
What types of skin conditions do you treat?
We specialize in diagnosing and treating skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and select cases of melanoma. We also treat atypical moles and perform surgery for complex benign skin growths.
What is Mohs surgery?
Mohs micrographic surgery is an advanced, tissue-sparing procedure for removing skin cancer. It’s performed in stages on the same day, allowing the surgeon to examine each layer of tissue under a microscope and ensure all cancer cells are removed while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.
How long does Mohs surgery take?
Plan to spend most of the day at our office. Each stage of Mohs surgery requires lab analysis between removals, so timing varies by case. We recommend bringing snacks, water, and a book or device to help you stay comfortable during your visit.
Should I eat or take my medications before surgery?
Yes, you should eat and drink normally unless your doctor gives you specific instructions otherwise.
Continue taking your regular prescribed medications, including most blood thinners, unless told not to by your care team.
Do I need someone to drive me home?
You’ll only need a driver if you plan to take a sedative medication (such as Valium) for your procedure. Otherwise, you can usually drive yourself home after surgery.
Will there be a scar after Mohs surgery?
All surgical procedures leave a scar, but Mohs surgery removes the smallest amount of skin necessary to fully eliminate the cancer. Over time, your scar will soften and fade, typically improving for 6–12 months after the procedure.
Where are procedures performed?
Most procedures are completed in our accredited ambulatory surgical suite for your safety and comfort. Some complex or reconstructive cases may be performed at one of our trusted partner hospitals or surgical centers.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes! We are currently accepting new patients. Both self-referrals and referrals from other healthcare providers are welcome.
Mohs Surgery: Before, During, After
What is Mohs surgery?
A precise, layer-by-layer cancer removal that examines 100% of the margin during your visit.
We remove a thin layer, map and analyze it under the microscope, and repeat only where cancer remains—highest cure rates with maximum healthy-skin preservation.
How long will my visit take?
Half-day is common. Most time is tissue processing between stages. Bring snacks, water, charger, sweater.
Should I eat or change medications?
Eat normally and continue medications unless we coordinate a change with your prescriber. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours.
Note: Do not stop blood thinners unless both Dr. Hocker and your prescribing clinician advise it.
Will I need stitches, a flap, or a graft?
We choose the least invasive repair that protects function and appearance. Options include primary closure (stitches), flap, graft, or natural healing. We discuss pros/cons once margins are clear.
How much pain and scarring should I expect?
Most patients report mild discomfort; all surgery leaves a scar. Pain is usually well controlled with acetaminophen/ibuprofen (unless restricted). Scars remodel over 6–12 months; we provide scar-care guidance.
When can I work or exercise?
Desk work often next day; no heavy lifting/straining 3–7 days (longer for select repairs). Follow your written discharge plan for activity limits and wound care.
Special Populations
I’m immunosuppressed / a transplant recipient
You’re at higher skin-cancer risk; we coordinate closely with your transplant/oncology team.
We tailor surveillance, timing, antibiotics, and wound care to your medications and overall health.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Local anesthetics are generally considered safe; we individualize care. We’ll review timing, meds, and aftercare to keep you and baby safe.
Prevention & Follow-Up
How often should I have skin checks?
Typically every 6–12 months after a skin cancer—sooner if high-risk. We set a personalized schedule and teach monthly self-skin checks.
What sunscreen should I use?
Broad-spectrum SPF 30+, reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
Add UPF clothing, wide-brim hat, shade, and avoid tanning beds.
Day-Of Mohs Checklist
- Eat and drink normally
- Take usual meds
- Avoid alcohol 24 hrs
- Wear comfy clothes
- Bring snacks, meds list, and charger
- Arrange a driver only if taking a sedative.
Contact & Urgent Concerns
Call (913) 661-1755 for appointments, billing, or clinical questions.
After-hours surgical patients receive an on-call number for urgent issues (bleeding, fever, severe pain).
Emergencies: dial 911
Disclaimer: This page is educational and not a substitute for medical advice from your physician.
