Mole Guide

Mole removal surgery is a medical procedure that targets the removal of moles which are unsightly, irritating, or could potentially be precancerous. It generally involves either shaving the mole off or fully excising it, sometimes requiring sutures afterward.

Two primary techniques are employed for mole removal:

• Shave Excision: This method involves carefully shaving the mole off from the surface of the skin.
• Full Excision: In this approach, the mole along with a margin of surrounding skin is completely removed and the area is sutured.

The cost of mole removal depends on the method used and whether additional analysis is required:

•Shave Removal: £550 – This technique is suitable for raised moles and involves shaving the mole down to skin level.

•Full Excision: £750 – This method is recommended for larger or deeper moles and includes surgical removal with a small margin of healthy skin.

•Pathology Analysis (if required): £200 – This ensures the mole is thoroughly examined for any abnormalities or concerns.

During your consultation, our plastic surgeon will assess your mole and discuss the most appropriate treatment option, along with a full breakdown of costs.

Risks associated with mole removal are minimal but can include scarring, infection, or an allergic reaction to anesthesia. Medical teams take extensive precautions to minimize these risks.

Scarring varies based on the mole’s size, location, and the method used for its removal. Plastic surgeons aim to achieve the best possible cosmetic outcomes, especially in sensitive areas and give advice on how to minimise scarring after your treatment.

This procedure typically lasts less than 30 minutes and is usually performed at the same time as your consultation if you so wish.

Local anaesthesia is applied to the area around the mole to ensure the surgery is painless.

Patients can usually return to their daily activities immediately after the procedure, although those with larger or more sensitively located moles may need to rest for a few days.

Moles that change in size, shape, or color, or that cause bleeding, itching, or pain should be evaluated by a professional. Cosmetic removal is also an option.

Moles are typically sent for histological analysis if there is any concern about cancer, to help determine the appropriate follow-up treatment if necessary.

The decision between shave excision and full excision usually depends on the mole’s characteristics and your personal cosmetic concerns. Protruding moles usually are suited best to shave excision. We will discuss the best option during a consultation.

Post-operative care involves keeping the area clean and dry and applying any prescribed ointments we give you. Healing time varies by the location of the wound but usually occurs within 14 days. We will arrange any necessary follow up as part of your package.

There is a small chance of a mole regrowing, especially if not all the mole cells were removed during surgery. Complete removal minimises this risk.