Moles and Mole Removal
We are all becoming more aware of the risks posed by sun damage to the skin and the need to protect our skin on a daily basis, not just on our two week summer holiday. Statistically skin cancers are on the rise, with Cancer Research recently highlighting a tripling in the incidence of malignant melanomas amongst 18-34 year olds. Experts recommend that we should all have regular mole checks to identify and if necessary remove any suspicious moles, especially if a mole has changed shape, colour or starts to irritate.
Moles are very common and may be colourless or brown. They represent congregation of melanocytes (pigment cells) and are often benign but have the potential to change with melanoma being the most important skin cancer. At LBPS we offer a mole check by a consultant dermatologist as well as mole removal services in our well-equipped surgical theatre.
The operation is usually carried out under a local anaesthetic, which means that the affected skin area will be completely numb but you stay awake. The area will be tested for any pain sensation prior to the procedure to ensure complete numbness of the treated area.
The exact technique used for removing the mole depends on the type of mole and where applicable patient’s preference. The dermatologist will discuss all options available. Most commonly the mole is either shaved with a scalpel or cut out and the remaining wound closed with stitches.
The operation will usually leave a scar. How big and noticeable this will be depends on the exact operation. It’s quite normal for a scab to develop and this will generally heal within a week or two. Any inflammation will usually disappear within a few weeks. Most scars fade significantly over the first year.
