Mole Removal

Mole removal is typically recommended for one of two main reasons: a medical concern or a cosmetic preference.

Some moles may display signs that suggest an increased risk for skin cancer, including melanoma. Dermatologists use the ABCDE criteria to evaluate whether a mole may be atypical or suspicious:

• Asymmetry: one half of the mole does not match the other half
• Border irregularity: edges are jagged or poorly defined
• Color variation: multiple shades of brown, black, red, or white
• Diameter: larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
• Evolving: changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms like itching or bleeding

If a mole meets any of these criteria, or if it begins to grow, itch, bleed, or become painful, Dr. Newsome may recommend removal and biopsy to rule out skin cancer.

Even when moles are benign, patients may choose to have them removed for aesthetic reasons. This is particularly common for moles that are large, raised, or located in visible areas such as the face or neck. Some individuals may also request removal if the mole is frequently irritated by clothing, shaving, or jewelry.

The method of mole removal depends on the size, depth, and nature of the mole. Common techniques include:

• Shave excision: This method is used for moles that are raised above the surface of the skin. After the skin is numbed with a local anesthetic, Dr. Newsome uses a small surgical blade to carefully shave off the mole flush with the skin. Shave excision does not require stitches and typically results in a flat scar.
• Surgical excision: For deeper or suspicious moles, complete excision may be necessary. Dr. Newsome will numb the area and use a scalpel to cut out the mole along with a small margin of surrounding tissue. The wound is then closed with stitches. The mole is usually sent to a pathology lab for examination to confirm the diagnosis.

Recovery time depends on the type of removal procedure and the size of the treated area.

• After a shave excision, the wound typically heals within 1 to 2 weeks. The area may be red or pink initially but usually fades over time. Scarring is minimal for most patients.

• After a surgical excision, the healing process can take a bit longer, generally 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the size of the excision and the number of stitches used. Patients are advised to keep the wound clean and dry and follow instructions for bandage changes and wound care. Stitches are typically removed within 1 to 2 weeks, or they may dissolve on their own.

During healing, patients should avoid sun exposure on the treated area to prevent darkening of the scar.

Patients should watch for signs of infection during healing, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. While scarring is possible, Dr. Newsome often uses techniques to minimize visible marks, especially for moles removed from cosmetically sensitive areas.