If you have a mole on your face or elsewhere on your body that bothers you, you may want to talk to your dermatologist about having it removed. Moles don't necessarily have to be removed, but if you don't like its appearance or if it bothers you when you shave, you might want it taken off. Your dermatologist might also recommend removing a mole if it is cancerous. Here's what to expect when you undergo mole removal.
1. An Anesthetic Is Injected Into The Area First
Moles are removed with minor surgery. You're given an anesthetic injection in the area to completely numb it so you feel no pain during the procedure. Mole removal is often done in the dermatologist's office and you'll be able to leave shortly after it's done. Once your skin is numbed, the doctor will remove the mole by shaving it off or cutting it out.
2. Small Moles Can Usually Be Shaved Off
Small moles that aren't very deep can often be shaved off at the level of the skin or just slightly below it. This procedure doesn't require any stitches because the wound is not very deep or big. Once the mole is removed, it is covered with a bandage. Your dermatologist will explain how to care for the site until it heals. It's important to follow the instructions closely so you have a low risk of scar development. You'll probably need to keep the area moist and covered for a few days. You may not need a follow-up appointment after the shaving procedure as long as you don't have any complications.
3. Larger Moles Are Cut Out
Sometimes, it's difficult to know how deep a mole is under your skin. The dermatologist may need to cut out quite a bit of tissue if you have a large mole. When the moles are large, the doctor usually cuts it out along with some surrounding healthy tissue. The mole might even be sent off for a biopsy just to make sure there are no cancer cells. Stitches are required when a mole is cut out. If the stitches are placed deep inside the wound, they will dissolve on their own over time.
Stitches that are placed on top of the skin to close the wound may need to be removed by your dermatologist in several days. Since cutting out a mole is a more invasive procedure, you'll probably have a follow-up appointment with the dermatologist to check on your progress. This type of mole removal can leave a bigger scar, so you want to care for the wound carefully to have the best results.
For more information, contact a company like Center Of Dermatology PC.