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Mole Removal

Mole Removal

Moles are dark spots or irregularities found in the skin. They come in various shapes and sizes. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin, from the nose and other facial area, as well as arms and chest areas, in groups, or by themselves. They can be present at birth, or can begin to appear over time. Some moles go unnoticed, and some, like facial “beauty marks,” are actually considered attractive. However, moles are bothersome to some people, and can even lead to dangerous health risks. Mole removal, whether by laser or other surgery procedures, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that provides a solution to people wanting to improve their appearance and reduce associated health risks.

With the increasing popularity of various cosmetic surgery procedures, including mole removal, it is important that the prospective patient research and understand different issues like what the procedure can and cannot treat, inherent risks, costs, and other factors. Keep in mind, cosmetic surgery is just that – a surgical procedure whose results cannot simply be erased. While the information contained in this website will provide you with a good introduction to mole removal, when considering this or any other cosmetic procedure, we recommend that you consult a qualified provider with significant experience. Some important elements you should understand regarding mole removal include the following:

Benefits of Mole Removal There are various benefits to this procedure, including:

• Removing protruding moles that get in the way of shaving.
• Reducing skin irritation that can occur when certain moles rub against clothing or jewelry.
• Achieving smoother, clearer skin.
• Enhancing appearance and improving self-esteem.

Most importantly, if a mole is suspected to be pre-cancerous early on, it can often be completely removed before it causes a serious health risk. Who would best represent an Ideal Candidate for Mole Removal?

Those people who can physically and emotionally benefit from having their mole removed would be considered a good candidate for the procedure. However, people must remember that there are limitations to what cosmetic surgery can do. It is meant for improvement, not perfection and is important to have realistic goals and expectations about mole removal.

Where do I begin?

Those considering mole removal should first find a qualified cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist to perform the procedure. An important factor in determining the success of your procedure depends upon the surgeon you select. CosmeticSurgery.com has created an easy and effective way for patients to find a cosmetic surgeon online. For more information please CLICK HERE.

Before consulting with a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist about having the mole removed, it is strongly recommended that patients have their mole examined by a doctor who has experience in treating moles, related skin conditions and skin cancer to help determine if the mole is cancerous. However, the majority of moles are benign (non-cancerous) and pose no threat to one’s health. To determine if a mole is cancerous, a small portion is examined through a biopsy or microscope analysis. This piece of tissue is usually examined at a pathology lab.

How is the Mole Removal Performed?

Before the mole is removed, the area is cleansed and then an anesthetic is applied to numb the area. The type of mole being removed determines what technique is used. Depending on the technique, stitches may or may not be used.

For excision of the mole, the surgeon uses a scalpel to cut the mole and a border of good skin surrounding it. The surgeon will determine the size of this border. Stitches are placed either deep within the skin, or on the upper surface, depending on the depth of the excision.

For the procedure that involves no stitches, a scalpel is used to shave the mole allowing it to be flush with the surrounding skin. Then using an electrical instrument, the doctor cauterizes the area to stop any bleeding. Topical antibiotic is applied to reduce risk of infection. Shaving removes the protruding surface of the mole, but it can leave mole cells beneath the skin and may grow back.

Mole removal typically takes less than an hour to perform, depending on the amount of moles to be removed.

Note: Laser treatment is another method of mole removal. While scarring is not an issue for this technique, it is important to know this is not a method used for treating deep moles because the laser does not penetrate deeply enough.

Please consult with your cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist as to which method will work best to meet your needs.

What should be expected after a mole is removed?

The amount of discomfort afterward varies on the method used. If there is discomfort, it can be relieved with prescribed pain medication. A scab usually will develop, and then heal within a week or two. Also any redness that occurs will disappear within two to four weeks. Most scars that do appear slowly fade over time

What Are the Risks and Limitations of Mole Removal?

While risks are minimal, a possible risk that can occur is infection. The risks associated with mole removal also depend upon the technique used.

A common condition that can occur after the excision procedure is scarring. Some scars fade away, but some can be permanent. Scars can be eliminated through skin resurfacing or other scar revision procedures.

What Are The Typical Costs Associated With Mole Removal?

The costs for mole removal vary depending on the method used. Fees typically range from $50 to $550. However fees within various regions may vary depending on whether the doctor’s practice is in an urban, suburban or rural area. When viewing a doctor’s costs for mole removal, make sure the total figure includes any and all associated costs. A comprehensive cost figure may be obtained during consultation with a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist.

Unfortunately most medical insurance providers do not cover cosmetic surgery procedures. However, most surgeons do offer multiple financing options. CosmeticSurgery.com provides information on various ways patients can fit mole removal into their budget. For more information please CLICK HERE.

Ten Questions Mole Removal Patients Should Ask Their Surgeon To better educate the patient about mole removal, as well as assisting in formulating realistic expectations, it is recommended that the patient look at before and after photographs, speak with previous patients, (you are always welcome to ask your doctor for referrals to previous patients and where to contact them) and get answers to the following questions:

1. Will my mole be completely removed, or will there still be traces of it left?
2. Where is the mole removal performed and how long will it take?
3. In my case, what technique will be the most appropriate for removing my mole(s)?
4. What kind of anesthesia will the surgeon use during the surgery?
5. How much does mole removal cost and what other elements factor into that cost (i.e. hospital fee, anesthesia, etc)?
6. What is the surgeon’s level of experience in performing mole removal?
7. What percentage of patients experience complications with the mole removal?
8. What is the surgeon’s policy in regards to correcting or repeating the procedure if the results do not meet agreed upon goals?
9. What should I expect, post-operatively, in terms of scarring?
10. Have you ever had your malpractice insurance coverage denied, revoked or suspended?

In addition, it is important that mole removal patients relay to their surgeon information regarding any allergies and serious medical conditions they may have. Furthermore, patients should inform the surgeon of any medications they are taking.

This site provides information about plastic/cosmetic surgery and is designed to help users make decisions regarding their own treatment options. But medical information is not the same as medical advice--the application of medical treatment to a person's specific circumstances. Although we go to great lengths to make sure our information is accurate and useful, we recommend you consult a qualified medical practitioner if you want professional assurance that our information, and your interpretation of it, is appropriate to your particular situation.

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