Mole Removal Procedures

Moles are a constant in all human beings. We have at least one on our body. Moles when situated on the right spot, can be beautiful (Think Marilyn Monroe) or can be unsightly especially if it is oversized, asymmetrical or too contrasting on your skin. They can also be signs of a deeper danger which is the start of melanoma.

At Marina Plastic Surgery, we’ve handled mole removal and mole surgery operations for countless patients. We are experts in the field of mole removal and surgery.

Overview

Moles come in different shapes and sizes. Most moles are benign and only a few are actually cause for alarm.

Here are the different types of moles:

Compound moles have cells in the dermis and epidermis. Their colour varies from normal skin colour through to almost black. They may have an irregular pigment pattern with black spots and dark hairs. On the face, these can cause self-consciousness, with the hair follicles also prone to infection. Women may pluck the hairs, but men risk cutting the top off the moles during shaving.

Intradermal moles sit in the dermis only and tend to be soft and fleshy. They can be raised up to 5mm, from skin colour to dark brown.

Dysplastic moles look like compound moles, but with a more irregular pigment and possibly a more irregular edge. They may also be larger. Because of their irregular pigmentation and edges, they can look like melanomas, so many of these are excised and examined ’for safety’ to ensure they do not harbour any melanoma.

Halo moles have had the pigment around the edges destroyed by the body’s immune system leaving a pale halo around a dark centre. These uncommon moles are benign and tend to occur in adolescents.

Blue moles have a blue/black colour, which is quite dense and can be confused with melanoma, so are often removed as a precaution.

mole removal

Best Candidates

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Adults who are constantly exposed to the sun, have a genetic predisposition to develop skin cancer or are exposed to conditions that run the risk of developing symptoms of skin cancer.
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Adults who have noticed a drastic change in their skin condition or suspect they may have skin cancer.

This mnemonic can help you perform a first assessment of your moles.

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A is for asymmetrical shape.
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B is for the border. Look for irregularities, notches or a scalloped border.
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C is for colour. Any change in colour, uneven colours or developing many colours is a cause for alarm
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D is for diameter. Anything larger than ¼ inch should be inspected by your GP.

Malignant moles may show one or more of the symptoms listed above.

Note: Only a licensed physician will be able to give a conclusive diagnosis as there are some changes in the skin that may not be cancerous in nature.

What to Expect

An initial consultation will be done to assess what type of mole you have with a secondary assessment done for a more conclusive diagnosis.

Treatment is only done if the mole present is malignant in nature or is not aesthetically pleasing.

mole surgery

After Surgery / Recovery

As with all types of surgical procedures, caring for the areas where the mole removal was made is the highest priority. Following your surgeon’s instruction for the proper care of the affected areas is highly advised.

Procedure Planner

Initial Meeting

45 – 60 minutes

Pre-op

30 – 60 minutes

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Procedure Time

2 – 6 depending on technique used

Recovery Time

2 – 8 weeks

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Post-op Follow Up

1 week

Succeeding follow-ups may be required to check the treatment progress.

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