Cosmetic Mole Removal
How Are Bothersome Moles Removed?
Cosmetic mole removal involves the safe and precise removal of moles for aesthetic purposes.
Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. Moles are benign (noncancerous) growths of a specific type of skin cells called melanocytes. These cells are responsible for producing pigment in the skin. Therefore, moles are typically slightly darker than your skin, but their color can vary. Moles most often occur on the face, chest, back, but they can occur anywhere on the body. If you are concerned about a mole, please schedule an appointment to have our expert board-certified dermatologist Dr. Thomas Knackstedt examine your mole.
While most moles are harmless, they may become a source of cosmetic concern due to their location, size, shape, or texture. Benign (non-cancer) moles do not need to be biopsied or removed unless the mole becomes irritated or painful, is in a bad location, or you would like it removed for cosmetic purposes. Large moles in prominent areas, such as the face, can attract our eye, so some individuals may want their moles removed. Facial mole removal is common among those individuals. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Knackstedt recommends two primary methods for mole removal: shave removal and local excision.
Shave removal is a minimally invasive technique used to remove moles that are raised above the skin’s surface. This method involves the following steps:
- The skin around the mole is cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort.
- A dermatologic instrument, such as a surgical blade, is used to carefully shave off the mole at or slightly below the skin level.
- The area is treated to stop bleeding, often with a topical solution, and a protective bandage is applied.
Shave removal is ideal for superficial moles that are not deeply rooted in the skin. The procedure is quick, leaves a flat surface, and typically results in a minimal scar that fades over time. It does not usually require stitches, making it an efficient option for patients seeking immediate results.
Local excision is a more in-depth technique used at Apex Skin Center for moles that are deeper within the skin or when a more definite removal is desired. This procedure includes the following steps:
- The area around the mole is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
- The dermatologist uses a scalpel to excise the mole, along with a small margin of surrounding skin for a clean and thorough removal.
- The wound is closed with stitches to promote proper healing and minimize scarring.
Local excision is often chosen for moles that may require microscopic pathology or for those with a deeper tissue involvement. In certain parts of the face and body, the fine line scar from the removal of a mole by local excision may be better than the small round scar from a shave removal. While the local excisoin method requires slightly more healing time than shave removal, it is effective for achieving long-lasting cosmetic and medical results.
Both techniques are performed by board-certified dermatologic surgeon Dr. Thomas Knackstedt in our state-of-the-art office at Apex Skin Center and take 30-60 minutes, depending on the size and number of moles being treated.
After a mole is removed, proper care is essential to ensure smooth healing and minimize scarring. Patients are typically advised to:
- Keep the area clean and dry.
- Apply any prescribed ointments or creams as directed to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Avoid strenuous activities that might irritate the treated area for the first few days.
- Protect the skin from sun exposure, as UV rays can darken healing scars.
Stitches from local excision are usually removed within 7-14 days, depending on the location. In some instances, the stitches may be dissolvable. For shave removal, healing occurs more quickly, often within a week. In both cases, mild redness or sensitivity may persist for a short time but gradually fades.
Cosmetic mole removal is a straightforward and effective way to enhance appearance and comfort. If you’re considering mole removal, schedule a consultation with board-certified dermatologist and fellowship trained dermatologic surgeon Dr. Thomas Knackstedt to discuss your options and create a personalized treatment plan. Available in Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina, our surgical and cosmetic dermatology experts minimize scarring and prioritize safety in your cosmetic mole removal. Schedule an appointment at one of our locations today to learn more about cosmetic mole removal.
At a Glance
Dr. Thomas Knackstedt
- Double board certified in dermatology and Mohs Surgery
- Over ten years of experience providing evidence-based care
- Nationally renowned physician leader with numerous publications, lectures, and academic affiliations
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