Mole removal is one of the most common procedures I perform in my dermatology practice. People seek mole removal for various reasons—cosmetic concerns, irritation from clothing or shaving, or medical evaluation.
There are several methods for removing moles, and the best option depends on the mole's characteristics and your preferences.
Shave removal is the most common technique I use. Under local anesthesia, I use a surgical blade to shave off the mole at skin level. This leaves a small wound that heals over 1-2 weeks. The advantage is that it's quick and leaves minimal scarring. The disadvantage is that the mole can potentially regrow if any cells remain.
Excision with stitches is used for deeper moles or when complete removal is important for medical evaluation. I remove the mole and surrounding tissue, then close the wound with stitches. This ensures complete removal and allows for pathological examination of the tissue. Stitches are typically removed after 7-10 days.
Laser removal is another option for certain moles. The laser vaporizes the mole tissue. The advantage is minimal bleeding and quick healing. The disadvantage is that tissue isn't available for pathological examination, which is important if there's any concern about melanoma.
Cryotherapy (freezing) is sometimes used for small, benign moles. Liquid nitrogen is applied to the mole, freezing it. The mole typically falls off within 1-2 weeks. This is quick and painless, though it may not completely remove deeper moles.
After mole removal, proper wound care is important. I provide detailed instructions on keeping the area clean and dry. Most wounds heal within 1-2 weeks, though complete healing and scar maturation can take several months.
Scaring is usually minimal, especially with shave removal. The scar typically fades significantly over time.
If you're considering mole removal, I recommend scheduling a consultation. I can evaluate your mole and recommend the best removal method for your specific situation.
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