Moles

Moles (or nevi) are raised, dark spots on the surface of the skin that can appear on any area of the body. While most moles are benign and harmless, it is important to have them assessed by a specialist if they grow or change over time. Newly formed moles should also be evaluated by a physician, just to rule out the possibility of skin cancer.

When cancer is suspected, the mole is usually removed as soon as possible. Even if a mole is determined to be benign, you may decide to remove it if it is in a spot that causes discomfort or cosmetic concern. Mole removal, particularly in a visible location like the face, is usually best handled by an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr Teston to ensure the best possible cosmetic result.

Before Mole Removal

Before removal, Dr Teston will evaluate your mole to determine whether a malignancy is possible. This is particularly true if the spot is new or has changed in size, colour or shape. If malignancy is suspected, Dr Teston may use a slightly different technique to remove the mole, taking care to eliminate all of the growth, especially possible cancer cells. Even if she is reasonably sure the mole is benign, a portion will be sent to pathology to obtain a conclusive diagnosis.

Dr Teston will also determine the best course of action from an aesthetic standpoint. For example, she will try to minimise visible scarring by placing the incision in an inconspicuous location, or in alignment with the natural lines and folds of the skin to make your scar less prominent.

During Your Procedure

In most cases, mole removal may be able to be conducted in the office or performed as day surgery, using local anaesthesia, in an accredited medical facility. The procedure is straightforward and often takes just a few minutes to complete once the anaesthesia is administered. Once the mole is removed, Dr Teston will carefully suture the incision, with an eye towards minimal scarring.

If the mole is larger, questionable, or in a sensitive area, the removal process may be more complicated. In these situations, Dr Teston may perform the procedure using general anaesthesia, although it will most likely still be a day surgery. Incisions may be more complicated, but again, Dr Teston will strive to make post-operative scarring minimal.

After Mole Removal

If your mole removal was simple and straightforward, you should be able to return to your regular activities immediately following your procedure. More complicated excisions may require a day off to allow for healing, but recovery time shouldn’t extend beyond a day or two. It will be essential that you care for your incision properly to ensure the best result for your scar.

Dr Teston will see you one week after your procedure to remove your sutures and check your progress. She can also follow up with you, later on, to ensure your incision is healing well and, if necessary, suggest additional treatments to further enhance the appearance of your scar.

Potential Risks and Complications 

All surgery carries some degree of risk. Some of the possible complications of mole removal include:

• Scarring
• Infection 

This is not a complete list. For example, your medical history or lifestyle may put you at increased risk of certain complications. Speak to your medical practitioner for more information.

Moles are usually harmless, but they can cause concern and even anxiety if you are worried about whether a malignancy is present. Dr Teston can put your fears to rest while removing the mole and producing the best cosmetic result possible. Schedule your personal consultation with Dr Teston today by phoning her office on (02) 9708 3511.

*The information about Mole Removal Surgery was reviewed by Dr Leana Teston. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using our contact form below.