When facing a skin cancer diagnosis, the choice of surgeon is one of the most important decisions you can make. Mohs micrographic surgery is considered the gold standard for treating many types of skin cancer, offering the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. But not all Mohs surgeons have the same training—and that difference matters.
Board Certification vs. Fellowship Training
All Mohs surgeons should be board-certified dermatologists, but true expertise goes a step further. Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons complete an additional 1–2 years of intensive, hands-on training under the direct supervision of highly experienced Mohs surgeons in an accredited training program. This fellowship ensures advanced skill in:
- Removing complex skin cancers with precision
- Performing same-day microscopic analysis
- Reconstructing wounds for the best cosmetic and functional outcomes
The Loophole You Should Know About
In recent years, a certification loophole has temporarily allowed some dermatologists to present themselves as “Mohs surgeons” without ever completing a formal fellowship. While these individuals may be board-certified in dermatology, they lack the rigorous, supervised training that fellowship provides. For patients, this distinction is critical. Without fellowship training, a surgeon may not have the same level of experience in managing complex or high-risk skin cancers, or in performing advanced reconstructions.
Why Fellowship Training Matters for You
Skin cancer treatment isn’t just about removing cancer cells—it’s about achieving the highest cure rate while minimizing scarring and preserving function in sensitive areas like the face, ears, and hands. A fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon is uniquely prepared to balance cancer removal with cosmetic and reconstructive expertise.
The Uderm Standard
At Uderm, our Mohs surgeon is both board-certified and fellowship-trained. That means every patient we treat receives care from a surgeon who has completed the highest level of training in skin cancer surgery and reconstruction. It’s one of the many reasons why Uderm is the most trusted name in dermatology in the Chattanooga region.
Your Health Deserves the Highest Standard
Don’t settle for anything less when it comes to your skin cancer care. Always ask your surgeon:
- Are you fellowship-trained in Mohs surgery?
- Where did you complete your fellowship?
- How many Mohs cases have you performed?
Your skin—and your health—deserve nothing but the best.
Understanding Skin Cancer