Below are the most important questions to ask when selecting a Mohs surgeon — and how Dr. Shelton’s credentials and experience reflect the qualities that matter most.

• Is the surgeon fellowship-trained and board-certified in Mohs micrographic surgery?

Not all Mohs surgeons are board-certified specifically in Mohs Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery. It’s essential to confirm that your doctor holds certification in this subspecialty as well as in dermatology. This ensures advanced training in both precise cancer removal and refined reconstructive techniques.

Dr. Ron Shelton is double board-certified — in Mohs Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery and Dermatology. His dual certification, combined with his fellowship training in Mohs and reconstructive surgery, reflects a commitment to the highest standards of care and safety.
Over the years, many of Dr. Shelton’s patients have stated that the doctor or the medical referral service who had referred them call him the  “Michelangelo of Mohs surgery” — a reflection of his artistry and attention to detail.

• How many Mohs cases does the surgeon perform per year?

Experience is key to achieving precise surgical outcomes. Surgeons who perform Mohs surgery regularly develop the refined judgment and technique necessary for accurate cancer removal and meticulous reconstruction.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Shelton has performed more than 25,000 Mohs procedures, treating a wide range of skin cancers across the face, scalp, neck, and body. His vast experience and careful, patient-focused approach contribute to consistently outstanding results.

• Who will perform the reconstruction after the cancer removal?

Reconstruction following Mohs surgery is especially important for areas such as the nose, eyelids, and lips. While some patients are referred to plastic surgeons, Dr. Shelton often performs the reconstructive work himself at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, ensuring seamless aesthetic and functional restoration. Certainly, patients referred by plastic surgeons are scheduled so that they are referred back to those surgeons for repairs which are often done the same day.

• Does the surgeon have experience with your specific lesion location?

Surgery on cosmetically sensitive areas requires a balance of precision and artistry. Patients are encouraged to ask for before-and-after photos of similar cases.
Dr. Shelton’s experience with delicate areas such as the face and ears ensures natural, well-healed results that respect each patient’s individual features. 

• What are the wait times, and does the facility handle pathology in-house?

Facilities that process tissue slides on-site can provide faster results and reduce patient anxiety.
At Dr. Shelton’s state-of-the-art surgical suite, all tissue analysis is done in-house, allowing same-day evaluation and immediate confirmation of clear margins.

• Are insurance and cost details clear?

Patients should always confirm insurance coverage and billing in advance, especially those traveling from abroad or paying privately.
Dr. Shelton’s office team provides clear estimates and helps patients navigate their insurance, making the process smooth and transparent.

The Takeaway

Choosing a Mohs surgeon is both a medical and personal decision — it’s about trusting someone who combines technical expertise with an artistic eye.
With dual board certifications, fellowship training, and over 25,000 Mohs surgeries performed, Dr. Ron Shelton has earned a reputation for excellence, precision, and compassion — one that many of his patients describe as nothing short of artistic.