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Mole Removal

If a mole is changing shape, itchy, bothersome, or you simply want it removed for peace of mind, you may consider mole removal. While many moles are harmless, monitoring or removing a mole can prevent uncertainty and improve cosmetic appearance.


Mr Rikki Mistry, a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in skin and reconstructive surgery, offers careful evaluation and advanced mole removal techniques to help you achieve safe, clean and confident results.


Carpal tunnel release

Understanding Moles

What is a mole?

A mole (nevus) is a cluster of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) that appears as a spot on the skin. Most people have multiple moles, and many are stable and harmless.


Why do moles form?

Moles often arise due to genetic factors and sun exposure. Some appear in childhood; others emerge later in life.


  • When is a mole concerning?

    Use the “ABCDE” rule as a guide:

    • Asymmetry - one half doesn’t match the other

    • Border irregularity

    • Colour variation within the mole

    • Diameter over 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)

    • Evolving - changing in size, shape, colour, or symptoms (itching, bleeding) 


If a mole meets any of these criteria or causes symptoms, a specialist evaluation is needed.


  • Do all moles need removal?

    No. Benign, stable moles that don’t cause symptoms or cosmetic concern can be safely monitored.

  • Why remove a mole?

    • Suspicion of malignancy (skin cancer)

    • Irritation, rubbing, or bleeding

    • Cosmetic or psychological reasons



Tailored Care for Every Patient

During your consultation, Mr Mistry will:


  1. Take a medical and skin history, including any changes or symptoms in the mole

  2. Perform a detailed lesion examination

  3. Use dermatoscopy or imaging (if needed) to assess risk

  4. Discuss whether removal is prudent vs observation

  5. Explain different removal options, pros/cons, and expected outcomes

  6. Co-design the plan that balances safety, appearance and recovery


Because moles vary in size, location, depth, and risk, the removal technique is customized for you to minimize scarring and optimize cosmetic outcomes.



Mole Removal Procedure

Here’s what typically happens when a mole is removed:


  1. Pre Operative Planning - The operative plan is drawn precisely on the skin – to aim to minimise the effects of scarring

  2. Anaesthesia - A local anaesthetic is used so you feel no pain during the procedure.

  3. Clean and prep - The area is disinfected and sterile drapes are placed down.

  4. Removal technique - Depending on the mole’s characteristics, one of the following methods is used:

    • Excisional (full-thickness) excision - The mole and a margin of normal skin are cut out. The wound edges are then sutured together. This is standard when pathology is required or the mole is suspicious.

    • Shave excision (saucerization) - The mole is shaved flush with the skin surface. Suitable for raised, benign-appearing moles where full-depth removal is not needed for diagnosis.

    • Punch excision - A circular blade (punch) is used for small moles, followed by sutures.

    • Laser removal - In selected cases (benign, superficial moles), laser can vaporize tissue, though no pathology sample is obtained.

  5. Pathology - If suspicion exists, the removed tissue is sent to histopathology to rule out dysplasia or malignancy.

  6. Duration - Most mole removals take 15–30 minutes, sometimes longer if multiple or large moles.

  7. Closure and dressing - The site may be closed with stitches and dressed with a sterile dressing.



Recovery and Aftercare

Healing timeline:

Small excisions typically heal in 7–14 days. Stitches are removed on the face in 5-7 days with other areas either 7-14 days. In some areas you have the option of dissolving sutures which can take 2-4 weeks before they break away from the skin.


  • What to expect - Mild swelling, redness, tenderness, and possibly bruising are common initially.

  • Aftercare guidance:

    • Keep the wound clean and dry

    • Apply antibiotic ointment if prescribed

    • Change dressings as directed

    • Avoid strenuous activities that stretch the area

    • Protect from sun exposure until completely healed

    • Do not pick scabs or scratch

  • Scar management - Over months, scars typically fade and flatten. Use of silicone gel, sunscreen and gentle massage may help.

  • Watch for complications - If you notice increasing pain, spreading redness, drainage, bleeding or signs of infection, contact your surgeon.



Why Choose Rikki Mistry

Diagnostic expertise: Mr Mistry has specialized training in skin surgery and pathology correlation, so suspicious lesions are handled with care and precision.


  • Aesthetic skill - Removal methods are selected to optimize cosmetic outcome, especially in visible areas (face, neck, hands).

  • Safety first - Procedures are done in sterile environments with proper anaesthesia and follow-up, maximizing safety and minimizing complications.

  • Comprehensive care - You’ll receive clear explanations, pre- and post-operative support, pathology follow-up (if needed) and personalized scar care guidance.




 
 
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