Moles are one of the most common skin conditions, affecting those of all ages and skin types. Many people want to have their moles removed either for cosmetic reasons or because the moles appear cancerous. The experts at New England Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center in Weymouth, MA have tackled all your frequently asked questions about mole removal, including information about the procedure and recovery.
What Happens During Mole Removal?
After the area is numbed, an incision is made with a small scalpel. The mole is then removed either by surgically cutting it out or shaving the mole down until is it removed. If a mole is not cancerous and hasn’t gone into the deeper layers of the skin, it can be frozen off by using liquid nitrogen.
Does It Hurt to Have a Mole Removed?
No. Before the procedure, the area involved is numbed so there is no discomfort involved.
How Do I Care for the Area Afterward?
Once the mole is removed, there will likely be a small red mark that shows where the mole was before. You should care for this area by using ointment, cleaning the area and covering it with a small dressing. Depending upon the size and location of the mole that was removed, you may have some additional care instructions from your doctor.
As the area heals, a scab will form. After the scab forms, it drops off to leave a smoother piece of skin.
Can a Mole Grow Back After It’s Removed?
If the mole has been removed by being shaved off, and the cells were not removed completely, it is possible that the mole might grow back. However, it’s difficult to predict in which moles this will happen.
When Should You Have a Mole Removed?
There are several reasons you may consider having a mole removed. Sometimes, the mole is located on the face and it may be removed for cosmetic reasons. In other cases, the mole may show indications of skin cancer, and a biopsy needs to be performed to see if it is cancerous or benign. Cancerous moles should usually be removed.
Will I Have a Scar After the Procedure?
Dermatologists are experts at mole removal, and when an incision is made to remove the mole, it is carefully camouflaged within the folds of the skin, which means that you’ll have no visible scarring.
How Long Will the Stitches Remain in Place?
After the mole removal procedure, the stitches will be in place for five to seven days.
When Can You Resume Normal Routine After a Mole Removal?
After the mole removal, you should be able to immediately return to work or your normal routine, much in the same way that you return to work after seeing a dentist.
The Experts in Mole Removal
Whether you need a mole removed for cosmetic reasons or you have concerns about skin cancer, simply contact the experienced experts at New England Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center in Weymouth, MA.