Mole Removal
Relieve discomfort from moles rubbing against your clothes and improve and smooth the appearance of your skin through mole removal.
Some people are born with moles, which are raised, dark areas on the skin, while others experience moles that appear over time.
Why remove moles?
Moles in prominent or highly visible places can make people self conscious about showing their skin, and as a result, they are often removed for cosmetic reasons.
They may also become painful if they rub up against clothing, and people may choose to have the mole removed to stop the discomfort.
Moles with any irregularities, such as uneven shape or colour, or which have recently changed should be checked by a doctor for melanoma or skin cancer.
How are moles removed?
Your doctor may choose to remove your benign mole through:
- Excision: The mole is cut out or shaved away, often requiring a small number of stitches.
- Cauterization: Heat is used to "burn" away the mole and seal off the skin
In most cases, the area surrounding the mole to be removed will be numbed with a local anesthetic. The procedure usually takes less than an hour.
Your doctor will choose the best treatment based on the size, colour and location of the mole.
How will I heal from my mole removal?
It usually takes about six weeks to fully heal after a mole removal. You should be able to return to your normal activities almost immediately. If your mole is excised, the stitches will often be removed after five to 10 days.
Dr. Kevin O'Grady can help you decide which method is best for you and minimize scarring to optimize your comfort and the look of your skin.
