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.
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.
Is Mole Removal for me?
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.
First steps for Mole Removal Surgery?
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.
What should I expect 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
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.
Need more information about Mole Removal?
If you would like more information about Mole Removal
offered by our Consultant, or whether Mole Removal
is right for you, please contact
us today.
For more information about Mole Removal in Blackpool
, Preston and the North West, call 01772 663977 or
email for
further details. |
