Becoming a Board-Certified Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon: What It Takes

Posted on: July 17th, 2025 by Our Team

July is typically the month when medical students become interns and residents graduate to become full independent physicians. While board-certified dermatologist and board-certified, fellowship trained Mohs surgeon Dr. Thomas Knackstedt has been in practice for over a decade, we nevertheless felt this was a fitting time to give readers a more in-depth look into this training journey! Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique used to treat skin cancer by removing the minimum amount of tissue necessary to ensure complete removal of the cancer. To become a board-certified Mohs surgeon, one must meet certain requirements and complete a rigorous training process.

Education Requirements: To become a Mohs surgeon, one must first complete an M.D. or D.O. medical degree and become licensed to practice medicine. After medical school, a dermatology residency program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) must be completed.

Board Certification in Dermatology: Once dermatology residency is completed, the physician must become board certified in dermatology by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD). Board certification by the ABD requires passing written exams, demonstrating a high level of clinical competence and ethical behavior, and meeting other standards set by the ABD.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery Fellowship: After becoming board certified in dermatology, the dermatologist must complete a one-year, ACGME-accredited Mohs micrographic surgery fellowship. This fellowship is only open to board certified dermatologists. During this fellowship, intensive training in Mohs surgery techniques, wound closure, and tissue reconstruction is received. The training fellow receives exposure to a wide range of skin cancer cases, including rare and complex cases.

Board Certification in Mohs Micrographic Surgery: After completing a Mohs micrographic surgery fellowship, the fellow is eligible to become board certified in Micrographic (Mohs) Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology. To become board certified, the physician must again demonstrate proficiency in Mohs surgery and skin oncology (cancer biology, diagnosis, and management) through a written examination, as well as provide evidence of a high level of competence and ethical behavior.

Continuing Medical Education: Once a board-certified Mohs surgeon, certification must be maintained and renewed by participating in continuing medical education (CME) programs and demonstrating a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient care.

At Apex Skin Center, board-certified dermatologist and board-certified, fellowship trained Mohs surgeon Dr. Thomas Knackstedt is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to patients with skin cancer.