Thomas L.H. Hocker, MD, M.Phil.

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Harvard Medical School Trained

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Mayo Clinic Trained & Recipient of Most Outstanding Scholar

Mohs Surgeon | Skin Cancer Surgery | Melanoma Surgery | Dermatologic Reconstruction

Advanced Dermatologic Surgery — Overland Park, Kansas


Dr. Hocker earned his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed his dermatology residency and Mohs surgery fellowship training at Mayo Clinic. He also completed advanced dermatopathology training at the University of Michigan.


He is triple board-certified in dermatology, dermatopathology, and Mohs micrographic surgery, subject to final confirmation of the exact certification wording.


Alongside his private practice, Dr. Hocker serves as Founding Director of Dermatologic Surgery and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Medicine and University Health.



Dr. Hocker has contributed to medical research, published studies on dermatology and skin cancer, and co-authored the best-selling textbook, Review of Dermatology. His experience includes surgical treatment of complex skin cancers and reconstruction of the nose, ears, eyelids, and lips.

Areas of Expertise


Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery treats certain skin cancers by allowing the surgeon to examine removed tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.


Melanoma Surgery

Dr. Hocker has extensive experience treating selected melanomas with specialized surgical methods. The right treatment depends on the melanoma's type, location, and stage.


Skin Cancer Surgery

Dr. Hocker treats basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and selected uncommon skin cancers.


Reconstructive Surgery

After skin cancer removal, Dr. Hocker performs reconstructive procedures to support healing, preserve function, and restore appearance.


Education and Training

  • Yale University — Undergraduate education
  • University of Cambridge — Master of Philosophy
  • Harvard Medical School — Medical degree
  • Mayo Clinic — Dermatology residency
  • University of Michigan — Dermatopathology fellowship
  • Mayo Clinic — Mohs micrographic surgery fellowship


Academic and Professional Work

Dr. Hocker is involved in medical education, research, and training future physicians. His academic position at UMKC and University Health links his clinical experience with teaching and professional development.


He has also held leadership roles in dermatologic medical organizations and contributed to the textbook Review of Dermatology.


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