A Guide to Mole Removal Surgery
If your kind of mole requires surgical treatment then it's very important that you know just what to expect from the procedure. Here is a detailed guide to who surgery is for, and what you can expect both during and after the procedure.
Who Should Get Surgery to Remove Their Moles?
Surgery can be used for men and women of all ages as a way of removing moles. This is especially useful for moles that get irritated by daily activities, but is also used by those who simply want to improve their appearance. Depending on the reason for your mole removal, it may not be available under the NHS – meaning you will have to pay for the treatment by a private doctor or cosmetic surgeon.
The Mole Removal Procedure
When you are deciding on whether to get mole removal surgery, you will first have a consultation with the surgeon who will talk to you about the procedure. This will allow you to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, as well as giving them the chance to explain what will happen in detail. This is also a good time to point out just what you don't like about your mole and how you'd like it to appear afterwards – they'll let you know if what you want is possible.
When you eventually go in for your mole removal surgery then you will be made to feel as comfortable as possible. This includes a local anaesthetic to the area where the surgery will be performed. You will usually only need to go in as an outpatient, and the surgery will be performed quickly.
The mole removal process:
- First, the mole will be cut out using a scalpel, as well as removing a border of good skin.
- Depending on how deep the incision had to be made, stitches will be placed on the upper surface or deep into the skin.
- This removal process will usually take less than an hour, though it depends on how many moles need to be removed at the time.
After the Mole Removal Surgery
Once your mole has been removed it's likely that you'll recover very quickly. Most removals require absolutely no recuperation time. However, you could feel a little discomfort in the area from which the mole was removed. You may be prescribed pain medication, though any pain or scabs will heal with a couple of weeks. If there is any scar following surgery, this too will usually disappear within time.
At this time the surgeon or nurse will arrange a check-up with you to ensure that your mole is healing the way it should.
The Risks of Mole Removal Surgery
Mole removal surgery is generally very safe. There are rarely any complications, and many people go through the surgery, recovering very quickly. However, if you are considering surgery as an option for mole removal then you should always understand the risks of surgery. Your surgeon will explain everything to you at the consultation, and you may also be given antibiotic cream to help reduce the risk of infection in the area.