Learn About Mole Removal Surgery

Moles are common skin lesions that appear anywhere on the body and face. Most moles are harmless; however mole removal is a common sought out surgery. Many decide to have their mole removed due to cosmetic reasons, while others choose to get their moles removed due to medical reasons, such as a sudden change in size, shape, or color of the mole. Whatever your reason may be to get a mole removed, aesthetic or medical reasons, it’s important to understand the different types of mole removal surgeries that are out there and which option offers the best results for your specific needs.

Moles vary in color, texture, and size. Some moles are flat and smooth, while others are raised or textured. Many people decide to have them removed because the mole is located on a prominent area of the body, like the face or neck. This can have a negative impact on one’s appearance and self-confidence. Others choose removal because their mole causes irritation from shaving, clothing irritation or jewelry. Another reason why people seek out mole removal surgery is due to the risk of developing skin cancer. If one’s mole looks suspicious or has a sudden change in color, texture or size, a surgeon will strongly recommend mole removal surgery. 

There are a lot of different mole removal surgeries that are commonly used. Choosing the right one for you depends on factors such as the mole’s size, depth and location on the body. It’s also important to note whether it’s being removed for medical or cosmetic reasons. Here is a list of common mole removal surgeries that are effective and safe when performed by a medical professional:  

Surgical excision

This is a widely used mole removal method where the surgeon numbs the area with anesthesia and then cuts out the entire mole along with some of the surrounding skin tissue. This mole removal surgery is invasive and requires stitches to close the incision. This mole removal surgery is best for those who have moles that are deep and potentially cancerous that need complete removal and biopsy testing. However, this type of surgery does leave scarring due to how harsh it is on the skin. 

Shave Excision

Shave excision is a less invasive mole removal surgery that is often used for raised moles that aren’t deep in the skin. After numbing the area, a doctor uses a blade to shave the mole with the surrounding skin. This mole removal surgery is invasive but doesn’t require stitches. It is a quick procedure; however, it does not remove the mole from the root, which means that there is a possibility of the mole growing back in the near future. 

Laser Mole Removal

Laser removal surgery uses light energy to break down mole tissue. This method is non-invasive and is best for small, flat moles on the skin’s surface. Since this mole removal surgery is non-invasive, the chances of scarring are slim to none, which makes it a perfect procedure for those who have moles on a prominent area of the body, like the face. 

Radiofrequency Mole Removal

This advanced technique uses high-frequency radio waves to precisely remove the mole from the root, removing the entire mole. It’s safe, effective and leaves minimal damage to the surrounding skin tissue, leaving little to no scarring. It’s one of the most popular methods for cosmetic mole removal, especially for moles located on the face. However, it is important to note that this mole removal surgery is used for non-cancerous moles.

All cases are different, but the best mole removal surgery is dependent on your goals and the mole itself. If the mole is being removed for medical reasons, surgical excision is often recommended because it is best for getting tissue that needs to be sent to a lab for biopsy. For cosmetic mole removals, many patients prefer radiofrequency or laser techniques because they are less invasive, gentle on the skin and leave beautiful cosmetic outcomes. For facial moles or moles located in sensitive areas, choosing an experienced surgeon is very important. After mole removal surgery, most people have mild redness and tenderness in the area, which usually goes away within a few days. It’s important to follow the after-care instructions given by your surgeon. At many clinics, patients are given a skincare recovery gel to promote faster healing and reduce the risk of scarring! 

Mole removal surgery improves both the appearance and health of your skin. Whether you’re removing a mole for peace of mind or cosmetic reasoning, mole removal surgeries make it possible to achieve beautiful and healthy results. If you’ve been thinking about removing a mole, schedule a consultation with a qualified mole removal specialist!