Mole Removal Surgery

Before mole removal surgery, the area of skin is first cleaned, then numbed with a local anesthetic.

The doctor will decide if the mole will be “shaved” or cut out.For removal without stitches “shaving”, the surgeon uses a scalpel to scrape off the mole so that its level with or slightly below the skin. An electrical tool is then used to burn the area. This is to seal the opening and prevent bleeding and infection. The wound is then covered with a sterile dressing that is to be kept on for the length of time that the doctor instructs.

Skin moles that need stitches after they’re removed are usually large, deeper, darker and/or flat. The surgeon cuts away the mole and some of the surrounding skin, depending on the risk of cancer and if any abnormal cells could have spread.

Dissolvable stitches may be put inside the wound, or the surface of the skin may be stitched and the stitches taken out during a later visit.

Skin moles are sometimes removed for cosmetic reasons even if they are harmless, for example if a person has a mole they think is large and unsightly and is affecting their self-esteem and confidence.

The cost of surgical mole removal averages to about $120 per mole. You may need additional office visits as well.

Many people are very worried about this form of removal for their facial moles. I believe this worry is justified as anytime you cut the dermis you have a much greater chance of scarring.

CLICK HERE to read my mole removal surgery story.

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