Seattle Dermatologist, Dr. Jennifer Reichel Explains the Benefits of Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Seattle, WA, October 26, 2013 --(PR.com)-- Although summer is over, it is still important to be aware of the potential dangers of skin cancer. Being diagnosed with skin cancer can be terrifying, and finding the right treatment option can often be just as difficult. Fortunately, patients now have a variety of treatment options to consider. One of the most effective procedures for skin cancer is the revolutionary Mohs Micrographic Surgery.

Seattle Dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Reichel currently devotes half of her practice to skin cancer surgery and education. "Many people are still not familiar with it, but Mohs Micrographic Surgery actually offers skin cancer patients the highest cure rate of any treatment," Dr. Reichel says. "It is also much less-invasive than other procedures," Mohs is performed under local anesthesia, and is effectively used to remove skin cancer on anatomically sensitive areas such as the face, feet, hands, scalp, and neck.

Dr. Reichel explains that Mohs surgery effectively removes not only the visible tumor, but also any of the tumor's roots that may lie beneath the skin's surface. "Each layer of the cancerous tissue is removed, in a very precise manner," Dr. Reichel explains. Since every layer of the cancer is removed, the chances for the cancer recurring are greatly reduced. Scarring is usually quite minimal, as are the side-effects following the procedure, according to Dr. Reichel. The entire process can take a few hours, as the tissue that is removed must be processed and examined under the microscope to determine if any tumor is still present, and Dr. Reichel notes that many patients return to normal activities in several days, though the recovery period depends on the extent of surgery.

Dr. Reichel has an extensive amount of knowledge and expertise on Mohs surgery. She was fellowship-trained by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and the American College of Mohs Surgery.

Dr. Reichel stresses the importance of patient education in her practice, and works closely with patients to establish a plan that fits their needs. "Dealing with skin cancer can be extremely overwhelming for anyone," she says, "However, it is important for patients to learn what options are open to them. I encourage any patient to ask about Mohs Micrographic Surgery, and to see if it is right for them."

Patients in and around the Seattle area are encouraged to schedule a consultation with Dr. Reichel at (206) 859-5777 or http://www.pacificdermcenter.com/