Understanding Mohs Micrographic Surgery: Delivering Top Tier Skin Cancer Care in NYC

Skin cancer care in New York requires more than surgical precision. It requires a balance of technical mastery, anatomical understanding, and aesthetic sensitivity. On Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Dr. Ariel Ostad, a fellowship trained Mohs surgeon, provides advanced treatment that protects both health and appearance. His approach reflects the level of skill expected in a city where outcomes must be medically sound and cosmetically refined.

The Gold Standard in Skin Cancer Treatment

Mohs micrographic surgery is the most precise method available for removing basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Unlike standard excisions, which evaluate only a small percentage of margins, Mohs surgery examines all tumor borders in real time.

Key advantages include:

• Evaluation of 100 percent of surgical margins
• Elimination of cancerous tissue layer by layer
• Maximum preservation of healthy skin
• Cure rates above 99 percent for many tumor types
• Superior cosmetic foundation for reconstruction

This technique is considered the gold standard for tumors located on the face, scalp, neck, hands, and other cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas. Mohs is particularly valuable in New York, where daily interactions, public roles, and professional expectations make cosmetic outcomes a priority.

Dr. Ostad’s Surgical Expertise

Dr. Ariel Ostad trained at NYU Langone and completed a rigorous fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery and reconstructive dermatologic surgery. This dual expertise allows him to manage the entire process—from tumor removal to immediate reconstruction—ensuring both medical accuracy and aesthetic balance.

His experience includes:

• Detailed microscopic interpretation of tumor margins
• Advanced knowledge of facial anatomy and nerve pathways
• Precision in tissue movement and closure design
• Mastery of flaps, grafts, and layered repair techniques

Because he performs each step himself, consistency remains high. Patients benefit from continuous oversight and a single point of responsibility throughout the surgical day.

The Mohs Process Step by Step

1. Evaluation and Mapping

The procedure begins with a detailed assessment of the tumor using dermoscopy and clinical mapping. This blueprint guides precise excision and ensures targeted removal of cancerous tissue.

2. Layered Excision

Dr. Ostad removes a thin layer of tissue around and beneath the visible tumor. The sample is processed on site, sectioned, and examined under a microscope. If cancer cells remain along any margin, additional tissue is removed only from that specific area.

3. Microscopic Analysis in Real Time

Each stage includes immediate microscopic review. This method prevents unnecessary removal of healthy tissue and guarantees accurate, complete tumor clearance before reconstruction begins.

4. Reconstruction and Closure

Once all margins are cancer free, Dr. Ostad performs the closure. His reconstructive techniques include:

• Layered suturing for stability and precision
• Local flaps to match natural contour and texture
• Skin grafts when required for larger defects
• Scar optimization techniques to minimize long term visibility

Because reconstruction happens immediately after tumor clearance, cosmetic results are optimized and healing begins with a structurally sound foundation.

Why Choose Mohs Surgery on the Upper East Side

High level surgical care requires a setting that supports comfort, safety, and privacy. At Dr. Ostad’s clinic, patients receive a fully integrated experience designed to reduce stress and streamline the process.

Benefits of this environment include:

• Private surgical suites
• Dedicated nursing staff trained specifically in Mohs care
• Concierge level coordination throughout the day
• Comfort focused waiting and recovery spaces

This attention to detail allows patients to remain at ease during what can be an anxious experience. The goal is clarity, calm, and confidence from start to finish.

Beyond Removal: Restoration of Confidence

Mohs surgery successfully treats cancer. Reconstruction restores identity. As both a surgeon and aesthetic expert, Dr. Ostad prioritizes functional and cosmetic restoration equally.

Patients benefit from:

• Natural contour preservation
• Color and texture matching for minimal scarring
• Techniques that protect movement and expression
• Long term follow up to monitor healing and scar maturation

The outcome is not only cured cancer disease but renewed confidence. Patients leave with results that support their daily lives, interactions, and self image.

In Manhattan, where both health and appearance matter, Mohs micrographic surgery performed at this level represents the highest standard of skin cancer care.