Medical Dermatology

Mole Removal

Dr. Liew Hui Min

accredited consultant dermatologist

Mole removal is a dermatological procedure that eliminates benign or suspicious skin growths (nevi). These growths, formed by clusters of pigmented cells, appear as small, dark spots on the skin and vary in size, shape, and colour. The procedure may be performed for cosmetic reasons, to prevent irritation from clothing or jewellery, or to assess the mole for potential skin cancer, especially if changes in appearance have occurred.

Indications Benefits Techniques Preparation Procedure Recovery Risks FAQ

Indications for Mole Removal

Mole removal may be recommended in certain situations where it serves a medical or practical purpose.

Suspicious appearance: Moles exhibiting asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven colour, or changes in appearance may require removal and examination to rule out melanoma or other skin cancers.
Cosmetic concerns: Moles in visible areas can be removed if they are considered aesthetically undesirable or interfere with grooming and personal care.
Physical irritation: Moles in areas prone to friction from clothing, jewellery, or regular activities may be removed if they cause recurring irritation, bleeding, or discomfort.
Recurrent infection: Moles that repeatedly become infected, inflamed, or form cysts may benefit from removal to prevent future occurrences.

Benefits of Mole Removal

Mole removal offers several advantages that extend beyond the elimination of skin growths.

Cancer prevention

Removing suspicious moles allows for histological examination to detect skin cancer at early, more treatable stages before it spreads.
Reduced irritation

Eliminating moles in friction-prone areas prevents recurrent irritation, bleeding, and discomfort caused by clothing or physical activities.
Improved appearance

Removal of conspicuous or aesthetically bothersome moles can enhance skin appearance and restore a smooth skin texture.
Prevention of future complications

Removing moles that show early signs of change may prevent potential progression to malignancy or other issues.

Techniques for Mole Removal

Different techniques are used for mole removal, depending on the mole’s characteristics and medical considerations. These methods can be done in an outpatient clinic.

Laser Removal

Suitable for small, flat moles without suspicion of skin cancer. This method removes pigmented skin cells while preserving surrounding tissue, resulting in minimal scarring and downtime. Laser removal is often used for cosmetic purposes, particularly on the face.

Cauterisation

Uses heat to burn off the mole. A specialised cauterisation tool is applied to vaporise the tissue. For larger or raised moles, the procedure may involve shaving the mole before cauterisation. This is usually not recommended as the risk of recurrence is high.

Surgical Excision

Commonly performed for moles with suspicious changes and raised moles for cosmetic reasons. A local anaesthetic is administered before a scalpel is used to remove the mole along with a small margin of surrounding skin if necessary. This method ensures more complete removal of pigment cells but typically requires stitches, leaving a small scar that may fade over time. The excised mole is sent for histological analysis, and the results are reviewed in the clinic. For smaller raised moles, less than 4mm, punch excision can be considered so that the scar is cosmetically acceptable.

Preparing for Mole Removal

Medical Assessment: Before mole removal, the mole is examined, its characteristics documented, and photographs may be taken for reference. Dermoscopy, a specialised magnifying device, may be used to assess the mole’s structure. A review of medical history helps identify any conditions or medications that could affect the procedure.

Medication Review: All current medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements, should be disclosed. Blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, warfarin, or certain supplements may need to be paused 7–10 days before the procedure to reduce bleeding risk.

Pre-Procedure Instructions: The skin around the mole should be kept clean and free from cosmetics on the day of the procedure. Washing the area with mild soap and water before the appointment is recommended. Loose, comfortable clothing should be worn to allow easy access to the surgical site and prevent pressure on the area after the procedure.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Preparation and positioning

The patient is positioned comfortably to allow optimal access to the mole site. The surrounding area is cleansed with an antiseptic solution to minimise infection risk. Sterile drapes may be placed around the surgical field to maintain a clean environment during the procedure.

Anaesthesia administration

For surgical excision and cauterisation, a local anaesthetic is injected around the mole using a fine needle. A brief stinging sensation may be felt during the injection, but the area becomes numb within seconds or minutes. Laser removal may not require anaesthesia, depending on the mole size and location. Topical anaesthesia can be considered for laser treatment.

Mole removal

The mole is removed using the selected technique—laser, cauterisation, or surgical excision. If cancer is suspected, a margin of surrounding skin may also be removed. For surgical excision, a scalpel is used to cut around the mole, sometimes extending slightly beyond its visible borders. The tissue is carefully lifted and removed, then placed in a preservation solution for pathological examination. If the mole is less than 4mm in size, punch excision can be considered.

Wound closure

Closure depends on the method used. Laser removal and cauterisation do not require sutures, as the treated area heals naturally. Surgical excision may require sutures, with deeper dissolvable stitches to reduce tension and surface sutures to align the skin edges. Larger wounds may need multiple layers of stitches for support. Tissue glue can be used forwounds thathave low tension, if one does not have a history of skin sensitivity.

Dressing application

Once bleeding stops, laser and cauterisation wounds may need only a protective covering. Surgical excision wounds are dressed with antibiotic ointment, a non-stick pad, and securing material to prevent contamination and support healing.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

Wound Care & Healing

Keep the area clean and dry for 24 hours. Laser and cauterisation wounds require minimal care, while surgical excision wounds may need dressing changes and antibiotic ointment. Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus.
Activity & Pain Management

Mild discomfort is normal and can be managed with paracetamol. Avoid strenuous activities, especially after surgical excision, to prevent wound strain. Normal activities can usually be resumed quickly after laser or cauterisation procedures. Sun protection is also crucial to prevent inflammation and pigmentation.
Scar Care & Follow-Up

Once healed, moisturiser or silicone gel may help reduce scarring. Sun protection prevents darkening of the scar. Surgical excision wounds may require suture removal in 5–14 days, and follow-up appointments may be needed for histological results.

Potential Risks and Complications

Scarring and pigment changes may occur, with surgical excision leaving more noticeable marks than laser or cauterisation methods. Infection, delayed healing, or mild bleeding can happen, especially with surgical excision, but proper wound care reduces these risks. Some moles may recur, particularly after laser removal or cauterisation, as some pigmented cells may remain. Temporary numbness or altered sensation around the treated area is possible, usually resolving over time. In rare cases, allergic reactions to anaesthetic or dressing materials may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the procedure take?

The duration depends on the removal method and the number of moles being treated. Laser and cauterisation procedures are usually completed within minutes. Surgical excision takes longer, especially if sutures are required. Most sessions last between 15 and 60 minutes.

Can I return to normal activities after mole removal?

Most daily activities can be resumed immediately, but strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that stretch the treated area should be avoided for a few days, especially after surgical excision.

How long does it take for the wound to heal?

Healing time varies based on the removal method and the skintype or location. Laser and cauterisation wounds usually heal within one to two weeks, while surgical excision wounds may take two to four weeks, depending on the depth and location. Stitches, if used, are typically removed within 5 to 14 days.

Dr Liew Hui Min

Dually Accredited Dermatologist In Singapore and the UK

Dr. Liew Hui Min is an accredited consultant dermatologist from the Ministry of Health and the General Medical Council UK.

Her clinical interest includes:

Paediatric Dermatology,
Women’s Dermatology,
General Adult Dermatology.

Having trained in major London Hospitals, Dr Liew returned to Singapore in 2014 as a Consultant at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) where she specialised in paediatric, women, obstetric and vulva dermatology. Currently, Dr Liew practices at HM Liew Skin & Laser Clinic located at Gleneagles Hospital.

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