Types of Mole Removal
There are a number of different options when it comes to having your moles removed. So long as your mole is benign, these methods are all a safe way of doing the same job. However, there are pros and cons of each method.
Surgery
Surgery is a popular method of removal, due to the fact that it's performed by a professional – as well as the fact that some moles require this kind of treatment.
If you choose to go ahead with this option, the area of the mole will be numbed using a local anaesthetic, and the mole will be cut out of the skin using a scalpel. Depending on your specific mole, you may need stitches afterwards.
If your procedure does not need stitches then the mole will simply be shaved off so that it is eventually level with the surrounding skin. In order to stop bleeding, the doctor will then cauterise what's left. You will need to apply antibiotics after the treatment to reduce the risk of infection. With this second method, the mole could eventually grow back as some of its cells beneath the skin still remain.
In either case, removal of the mole will usually take under an hour, though this again depends on the type of mole you have.
This procedure can be a little painful, even though the area is numbed first. This is why it's important to understand the other options available, such as do it yourself treatments, before you need to resort to surgery. Your doctor will also advise you on whether your specific mole will require surgery or not. There is also the risk of scarring with any mole removal procedure.
Using Herbal Products and Creams
This is a popular option for mole removal due to the fact that it is extremely simple and less painful than the surgical option. There are a number of different treatments available over the counter. They work by causing the mole to scab over, eventually falling off. It can take a while, but generally the mole will be gone without much pain.
This method is popular with those looking to save money as well as avoid scarring. It is generally more time-consuming than surgical procedures, but it can be done from home.
Cauterisation
This is another method of treatment, involving the mole being burned away with a tool used for cauterisation. Since the wound is burned, it does not require stitches. Over time this wound will simply heal naturally.
Laser Surgery
Laser treatment is another upcoming method of removing moles. This is preferred to surgery due to the fact that there is much less of a risk of scarring through this method. However, laser treatments are not suitable for all kinds of moles. This is because it cannot work deep into the skin.
Laser treatment is still effective at removing a number of kinds of moles, including skin tags, flat moles and those that have been present since birth and have not changed much. Laser treatment will not necessarily be successful in one go, and could need around 3 treatments to be effective.
Conclusion
There is no right or wrong method of mole removal. It does, however, depend on how many moles you have as well as how big they are. A doctor can advise you better on the best possible methods of removal.