The Different Ways That A Mole Can Be Removed

There are several types of mole removal. The type that your dermatologist recommends will depend on the size, location, and whether he/she suspects that the mole could be malignant. Here are the types of mole removal, what to expect from each procedure, and the aftercare that is involved for each kind.

Laser Removal

Best For

This procedure works best for flatter moles that don't have deep roots. Your dermatologist may prefer using a laser if your mole is in a conspicuous area, as this type of removal is the least likely to scar.

Procedure

Your dermatologist will numb the area with a local anesthetic that will be administered through a thin needle. The mole will then be cauterized with the laser. The whole procedure takes less than 15 minutes and does not require any downtime afterwards.

After Care

The area where the mole used to be will scab over and fall off in the next week. The area underneath will be sun sensitive for a few weeks afterwards.

Excision

Best For

Having your mole removed surgically is the smartest option for moles that have deep roots or may be cancerous. Your dermatologist may refer you to a plastic surgeon if your mole is very large or if the scar could possibly be disfiguring. If your mole seems suspicious, your doctor will order a biopsy on the mole after it is removed.

Procedure

Your doctor will numb the mole and the area around it with a local anesthetic. The mole and the surrounding skin will be cut out with a scalpel then stitched closed. At this time, a biopsy may be performed or a tissue sample will be sent to a lab to be examined for cancer.

After Care

Your stitches will dissolve after a week or two. After the stitches dissolve, you may have a scar. To minimize the appearance of scarring, you can apply scar cream. If the scar is still there in a few months, its appearance can be reduced with laser therapy.

Surgical Shave

Best For

Raised moles that don't appear to be suspicious and pose more of a cosmetic issue for the patient.

Procedure

Your doctor will numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then he or she will take a scalpel and "shave" the mole at its base so that just your skin is left.

After Care

It is unlikely that you will need stitches after your mole is removed through this method. You may have small scar or red area for a few months. If the area is still noticeable after a few months you can have the scar treated with a laser.

For more information, contact Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists or a similar organization.