Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer is the gold standard for precision and preservation of healthy tissue. Choosing the right Mohs micrographic surgeons is key to achieving the highest cure rates while maintaining the best possible cosmetic outcome.

What Is Mohs Micrographic Surgery?

Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise, highly effective procedure used to remove certain types of skin cancer — usually basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs in the 1930s, it’s unique because the surgeon removes the cancer in stages, examining each layer under a microscope immediately after removal. This process continues until no skin cancer cells remain. This results in the highest possible cure rate while sparing as much healthy skin as possible.

Unlike standard excision, where a surgeon removes the tissue all at once and sends it to a lab for later examination, Mohs micrographic surgeons can see exactly where cancer cells are still present during the procedure. This means less guessing, less removal of healthy tissue and often a smaller scar. It’s especially valuable for cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas like the face, ears and hands.

The Best Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Skin Cancer

Finding the right surgeon can feel overwhelming, but there are some standout specialists in California. These practices and physicians stand out for their advanced training, exceptional success rates and patient-focused approach.

1. Dr. Julia Arzeno, MD, FAA

Dr. Julia Arzeno, MD, FAAD, is a reputable dermatology surgeon at Berman Skin Institute, offering a full range of services, including Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer. Dr. Arzeno practices in Walnut Creek and Pleasanton. She is board-certified in dermatology and fellowship-trained in dermatologic oncology and the surgical management of skin cancer. She has had over 2,000 successful Mohs surgeries.

Dr. Arzeno has significant experience treating basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis via surgical excision and Mohs technique. She trained at UCLA, is affiliated with Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, and has co-authored peer-reviewed articles in the skin cancer treatment field. The institute helps patients understand surgical credentials, pathology support and reconstructive care options. The

practice model offers medical and surgical dermatology and supports prompt referrals for reconstruction when needed.

Key Features:

● Includes fellowship-trained expertise, such as Dr. Julia Arzeno, MD, FAAD

● Offers Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer as part of comprehensive dermatologic care

● Strong patient education focused on technique and outcome expectations

● Clinical research involvement, with physicians contributing to scholarly articles and staying current with treatment advances

● Convenient locations, including Walnut Creek and Beverly Hills, bringing quality care to Northern and Southern California

● Integrated surgical and reconstructive services, enabling seamless care from tumor removal to outcome preservation

2. California Skin Institute

California Skin Institute (CSI) is one of the largest and most trusted dermatology networks in the state, with over 40 locations, including San Mateo, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento and Fresno. The team of board-certified Mohs micrographic surgeons includes fellowship-trained experts who specialize in treating complex, high-risk skin cancers. They’re particularly well known for their integrated approach, where dermatologists, pathologists and reconstructive surgeons work together to provide complete, efficient care.

Patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer at CSI benefit from same-day pathology, meaning they get real-time updates on whether all the cancer has been removed. This approach improves cure rates and reduces the number of visits needed. CSI surgeons follow a patient-first philosophy, prioritizing tissue preservation and aesthetic outcomes, especially in cosmetically sensitive areas like the face and neck.

Key Features:

● Fellowship-trained Mohs experts with decades of combined experience

● On-site pathology labs for efficient, same-day results

● High-volume surgical practice with very high cure rates for certain cancers

● Collaborative care model with access to plastic surgery and oncology specialists

● Offices across the Bay Area, Central Valley and Silicon Valley

● Patient-focused guidance on how to choose a Mohs surgeon with confidence

3. Cedars-Sinai Medical Group

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Cedars-Sinai offers world-class dermatology care with a strong focus on Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer. Its dermatologic surgery division is led by board-certified, fellowship-trained micrographic surgeons who treat common and rare skin cancers. Cedars-Sinai is nationally ranked and draws patients from across Southern California for its precision and reputation for excellence.

Beyond surgical skill, the team places a strong emphasis on patient education. From the first consultation, they help individuals understand how to choose a surgeon, what the procedure entails and how to prepare for recovery. It also offers customized post-operative care plans to ensure the cancer is gone and the cosmetic results are optimal.

Key Features:

● Hospital-grade facilities with access to advanced imaging and testing

● Top-tier Mohs micrographic surgeons recognized for leadership in dermatologic surgery

● Focus on high-risk, recurrent and facial skin cancers

● Patient education resources that explain how and why Mohs is performed

● Multidisciplinary care available under one roof

● Located in Los Angeles, serving Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and greater LA

4. UCSF Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Center

University of California San Francisco is a leader in academic medicine, and its Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Center offers cutting-edge care from some of the most respected Mohs micrographic surgeons in the country. The program focuses heavily on evidence-based treatment protocols, combining surgical excellence with groundbreaking research.

UCSF is an ideal option for those looking for an academic, research-driven environment. Surgeons here are actively involved in clinical trials and publish regularly in peer-reviewed journals, meaning you receive care that reflects the latest science.

Key Features:

● Nationally recognized dermatologic surgery team

● Academic setting with access to research-based treatments

● Fellowship-trained Mohs experts who are also educators

● Cutting-edge facilities in the center of San Francisco

● Ideal for complex or aggressive skin cancers

● Patient-first education

5. Santa Barbara Skin Institute

Santa Barbara Skin Institute provides high-quality Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer through fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons like Dr. Robert Sengelmann, who specializes in treating basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and early-stage melanoma.

The clinic is known for offering clear explanations, recovery expectations and possible reconstructive outcomes. It emphasizes minimizing scarring and preserving healthy tissue, ideal for sensitive areas like the face, ears or hands.

Key Features:

● Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons, including Dr. Sengelmann

● High cure rates for nonmelanoma skin cancers

● Patient-focused education on choosing a surgeon and procedure steps

● Same-day surgical and reconstruction coordination to minimize disruption

● Beautiful, calm locations in Santa Barbara and Solvang, with modern facilities

● Strong cosmetic outcomes, especially for facial and neck cancers

How to Choose a Mohs Surgeon

Choosing the right Mohs surgeon can make a huge difference in your treatment outcome. Here’s how to feel more confident in your decision.

Verify Board Certification and Training

When considering how to choose a Mohs surgeon, start by confirming they’re board-certified in dermatology or dermatologic surgery. Ideally, they should have completed a fellowship through the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) or an equivalent recognized program. Fellowship training means your surgeon has performed hundreds of Mohs micrographic surgeries for skin cancer cases under expert supervision.

Ask About Experience and Case Volume

The more cases a surgeon has handled, the better their skills are likely to be. Ask how many surgeries they perform each year. Surgeons who perform the procedure daily or weekly are often more adept at managing complex cases and reconstructive needs.

Understand Their Cure Rates

A qualified Mohs micrographic surgeon should be able to share their personal or practice-wide cure rates. Higher rates generally mean better accuracy in removing all cancer cells while preserving healthy tissues.

Evaluate Pathology and Surgical Skills

Mohs surgery combines surgical removal with immediate microscopic examination. Make sure the surgeon personally reviews the slides rather than delegating the task entirely to a lab. This dual role is what sets Mohs micrographic surgery apart from other methods.

Check Their Reconstruction Expertise

Some skin cancer removals require intricate closure techniques or even flap or graft reconstruction. Ask whether the surgeon can perform repairs immediately after the procedure or if they coordinate closely with a plastic surgeon. This can affect healing time and cosmetic outcome.

Review Patient Testimonials and Before-and-After Photos

Patient experiences can offer valuable insight into bedside manner, communication and cosmetic results. Look for before-and-after photos of cases similar to yours, especially if your cancer is in a visible location like the face or neck.

Consider Location and Accessibility

While skill should be your top priority, location and convenience matter, too — especially if follow-up visits are needed. Some patients travel long distances for a top-tier Mohs micrographic surgeon, but others may prioritize finding a highly qualified surgeon closer to home.

Finding the Right Surgeon for Your Needs

Choosing the right specialist for Mohs micrographic surgery is one of the most important decisions you can make for your health. California is home to some of the most experienced and highly trained experts, each dedicated to preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Consider one of these top options.