Mole Removal

What is mole removal?

Moles are clumps of pigment cells called melanocytes. These skin growths can range in colour from red to light or dark brown, and they can be flat or raised from the skin, resembling dark spots.

The most common moles are benign, but any large, irregular, or changing moles should be checked by a doctor or dermatologist to ensure they're not cancerous.

Moles can be removed for cosmetic reasons, or because they’re potentially cancerous (melanoma). At Cosmetica Medical Aesthetics, we can assess the mole and determine if you need to see a dermatologist if the mole looks like it should be tested. If that is the case i will refer you to your GP. If they confirm that the mole is not dangerous you can then book in with us and we can remove it for you. Most unwanted moles are surgically removed, cut out via punch excision or they can be shaved off with a scalpel.

What happens during mole removal?

The mole is first measured, mapped, and photographed during a skin exam. Your provider will sterilize the mole and surrounding skin with alcohol, then numb the area with local aesthesia. The injection may burn a little, but that’s the only discomfort you should feel during this procedure. You may also feel a little pressure. Overall, it doesn’t hurt.

The procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the mole and removal technique.

The method used will depend on the purpose of the removal, the mole’s colour (brown, red or “nevi,” or black), the size, whether it’s raised or flat, and where it’s located.

Punch excision is often used for flat moles. A sharp cylindrical device (like a tiny cookie cutter) removes a round plug of tissue, including the mole. If a mole is flesh-coloured, it’s usually shaved flat. There’s a fifty-fifty chance of it growing back in several years. We will usually remove the outermost layers of the mole using a razor or scalpel, but the depth of surgical shave depends on the location and purpose of the removal. The area will bleed but won’t require stitches. With a small bandage, the area should heal quickly.

What is the revovery period?

There’s no downtime after mole removal, but it’s important not to irritate the area while it heals. The incision can often be covered with a spot bandage.

Hold off from showering for 48 hours, and be careful while working out. You’ll also want to protect the wound from the sun, which can darken scars permanently and make them more noticeable. We can discuss if a topical skin care solution could help minimise your scar.

How do I book?

If you would like more information, please Contact Us.

Alternately you can use the "Book Now" link below to book your consultation, or if you are a returning patient and you have had the procedure with us before, you can rebook for your next appointment.

Book Now

Aftercare Advice

We always advise you to take extra care of yourself before and after you treatment. Your health and wellbeing is always our top priority, so we encourage you to drink plenty of water, avoid processed foods and add some extra fruit and vegetables into your diet. This will also help with the healing process.

Clean the wound twice a day with antibacterial soap and water
Apply an antibiotic ointment to your wound after cleaning, and then cover with a sterile bandage
Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Ibuprofen, as needed
Avoid scratching or rubbing your wound during recovery