A Mohs surgeon has specialized training in dermatology, skin cancer pathology, surgery, and wound reconstruction. During Mohs surgery, the surgeon removes thin layers of tissue and examines the mapped margins under a microscope, allowing cancerous tissue to be identified while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.
At West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center, Dr. David W. Judy is board-certified in dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery. He is also fellowship-trained in Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology. Dr. Judy and our team provide specialized skin cancer care in South Charleston, West Virginia.
What Sets a Mohs Surgeon Apart?
A Mohs surgeon fills several roles during treatment. The surgeon removes the visible cancer, prepares and evaluates the tissue, identifies any remaining cancer cells, and maps their exact location. This process continues until the examined margins are clear.
Because the surgeon personally reviews the tissue during the procedure, treatment decisions can be made immediately. Only tissue containing cancer needs to be removed during each stage, which is especially valuable when treating areas where preserving healthy skin matters, such as the face, ears, scalp, hands, and lower legs.
Why Does Fellowship Training Matter?
After completing a dermatology residency, a physician may pursue additional fellowship training in Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology (opens in new tab). This education includes experience in Mohs surgery, skin cancer pathology, wound healing, surgical anatomy, complications, and reconstruction.
Dr. Judy completed his Mohs Surgery and Procedural Dermatology fellowship at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He also completed a dermatology research fellowship in wound care at Duke University Medical Center and a dermatology residency at Largo Medical Center. This background supports his ability to evaluate skin cancer, remove it using the Mohs technique when appropriate, and plan the repair of the surgical site.
Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction
Removing the cancer is the first priority, but the repair that follows also matters. Mohs defects can vary based on the cancer’s location, depth, and size. Some wounds can heal naturally, while others may require stitches, a skin flap, or a graft.
Dr. Judy is one of the few fellowship-trained skin cancer and reconstructive surgeons in West Virginia. His training allows him to consider cancer removal and reconstruction as connected parts of the same treatment plan. When a repair is needed, he evaluates the wound carefully and selects a method based on the surrounding skin, the treatment area, and the amount of tissue removed.
Why Choose Dr. Judy for Mohs Surgery in South Charleston?
Dr. Judy is board-certified in both dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery. His fellowship in Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology gave him added experience in skin cancer surgery, microscopic tissue evaluation, and post-surgical reconstruction. He is also a member of the American College of Mohs Surgery, the American Academy of Dermatology, and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Receiving these services from one physician creates continuity throughout your care. Dr. Judy can evaluate the treatment area, remove the cancer, examine the margins, and determine how the wound should be repaired. West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center also provides ongoing dermatologic care, allowing our team to remain involved in skin examinations and monitoring after treatment.
Meet With a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon
A skin cancer diagnosis deserves care from a physician with specialized training in both cancer removal and reconstruction. Contact us to request an evaluation with Dr. David W. Judy at West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center in South Charleston, WV. Call (304) 925-7546 to speak with our office.