Moles or growths are typically removed in one session unless a re-excision is required.
Once the mole is removed, the skin will be in a phase of recovery. Patients are advised to follow the proper aftercare to ensure the wound heals properly and avoid any scarring or pigmentation.
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry for 24 hours.
- Resume normal showers in 24 hours. Wash with soap and water, and pat dry.
- Apply Vaseline daily to the area after showering and cover with a band-aid for 2 weeks.
- To reduce scarring, apply Skin Medica Scar Recovery gel twice daily once healed. This can be purchased in-clinic.
- Once healed, apply sunscreen to the area daily.
- If any bleeding occurs after the procedure, apply continuous firm pressure to the area with clean gauze for 20 minutes.
The biggest risk after surgery is infection of the surgical site. If you carefully follow the post-surgical instructions, it is very rare for this to happen.
Mole removal procedures are typically performed by dermatologists or plastic surgeons who have expertise in skin conditions and surgical techniques. This procedure is performed by our Double Board-Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Kristy Bailey.
Generally, lesion removals for a cosmetic purpose are not covered by OHIP or private insurance. If the lesion is cancerous, OHIP will cover the procedure.
Many of these adverse reactions are transient and self-limited. You will be advised on how to treat them.
- Surgical site infection.
- Mole recurrence.
- Erythema (skin redness).
- Local pain.
- Inflammation.
- Slight local bleeding.
In certain cases where patients are seeking to have a mole removed for cosmetic purposes, they may be trading the mole for a scar where the lesion is surgically removed. You will be advised on the best course of action by our Dermatologist.
- Always watch for any changes to the color, shape, size, or boarders of your mole.
- Avoid using home remedies or products without medical authorization.
- Use sunscreen daily.
- Monitor for any new moles that may appear.
A scar is the body's natural way of closing the skin and healing a wound.
If you follow all the post-surgical instructions, the wound will heal with the least visible scarring possible. It is always important to talk to your Dermatologist before any procedure, to assess the risk of a scar.
Moles should never be removed at home. Careful diagnosis by a Dermatologist is necessary before removing any lesion or growth on the body.
Common methods of mole removal include surgical excision, laser removal, shave excision, and cryotherapy (freezing the mole off with liquid nitrogen). The specific method used depends on factors such as the size, location, and type of mole.
The level of discomfort experienced during mole removal varies depending on the method used and individual pain tolerance. Local anesthesia is typically administered to numb the area before surgical excision or laser removal, minimizing any pain or discomfort.
Recovery after mole removal depends on the size and method of removal. In general, the treated area may require a few weeks to heal completely. Proper wound care, such as keeping the area clean and protected, is essential. Some scarring may occur, but it often fades over time.
The chances of a mole growing back after complete surgical excision are minimal. However, some mole cells may remain in the skin and cause a recurrence in rare cases. Regular skin examinations are recommended to monitor for any new or changing moles.
It is best to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, who can evaluate the mole and provide a diagnosis. They will consider factors such as size, shape, color, symmetry, and any changes in the mole to determine if removal is necessary.