Mohs surgery and how it fits into everyday skin cancer practice

Mohs surgery is often described as the gold standard for skin cancer excision, but in practice it’s a precision tool, not a default option. In this episode of Life by A Thousand Cuts, A/Prof Tony Dicker looks at what Mohs surgery actually involves, why it is different from standard excision, and the specific clinical situations where it adds real value. Rather than relying on representative histology, Mohs uses complete margin assessment before reconstruction. That makes it particularly useful when margins are hard to define, tissue is limited, or recurrence would be costly for the patient. Tune into this week's episode for an insightful discussion about: Why poorly defined or recurrent tumours raise margin uncertainty Why anatomical sites like eyelids, lips, and the nose change the risk calculus How Mohs compares with alternatives such as delayed reconstruction or planned re-excision When standard excision remains entirely appropriate The aim is to help you recognise when certainty matters more than speed, and when referral can spare patients repeat surgery or complex revisions. Prefer a visual format? Watch this podcast here.   Next steps in your learning journey 🎓  NEW Micro-Course: Introduction to the Dermatoscope Led by A/Prof Tony Dicker, this short course introduces the dermatoscope as the clinician’s key diagnostic tool for skin examination — a practical foundation for those beginning their journey in skin cancer detection. ✅ Learn how to use the dermatoscope and capture clinical images. 🎖️ 9.5 hours CPD  •  Online  •   $195 👉 Learn more & enrol > 🎓 Certificate Courses in Skin Cancer Explore our university-assured, structured pathway to elevate your knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. ➡️ Explore full program Life by a Thousand Cuts  This podcast series is designed to help you enhance your clinical decision-making, procedural skills, and confidence in skin cancer management. Focus on real-world cases, surgical techniques and tips, journal article reviews, diagnostic and management insights, and guest interviews with GPs and specialists.