Predictors of psychosocial outcomes of Mohs micrographic surgery: a review

Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a highly effective treatment for skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), especially in cosmetically sensitive areas. Despite its high cure rates, the procedure's impact on psychosocial outcomes, influenced by demographic, clinical, psychological, and social factors, necessitates careful consideration. This review aims to identify and synthesize the predictors of psychosocial outcomes following MMS, thereby informing patient management strategies. A comprehensive search of the PubMed database was performed to select peer-reviewed studies in English that discuss these psychosocial aspects in MMS. The review identifies younger age, female gender, smoking, centrally located facial lesions and larger operative defects as factors associated with less favorable psychosocial outcomes. Conversely, patients with strong social support and better preoperative mental health tend to experience more favorable outcomes. This highlights the utility of integrating psychological evaluations and support mechanisms into treatment plans, promoting a patient-centered approach that considers the broader health and psychosocial needs of patients. The implications of this review are significant, suggesting that focusing on these psychosocial determinants allows healthcare providers to improve patient satisfaction and overall well-being.