What is it?
Moles can be defined as growths on the skin that develop as a result of melanocytes (pigment cells) growing in groups. They often appear during childhood and can range from dark brown ones, to even skin tone or pink ones. Moles can also either be flat or raised in nature. Although most moles are harmless growths, some do tend to become cancerous later on in life. Hence, it is often advised to look out for itchy or bleeding moles, or ones that seem to change in appearance over a period of time.
Mole removal is a procedure done to remove the group of cells causing the lesion, either for medical reasons or for aesthetic reasons. More often than not, people tend to get their moles removed as they are unhappy with its look and position.
How is it done?
Mole removal can be done in several ways, with the most common procedures being surgical excision, shaving, burning and freezing. Surgical excision is often done when the mole is cancerous, and involves surgically cutting away the mole and stitching the skin back together. Shaving involves scraping away the layers of the mole using a surgical knife, while burning involves the use of electric current to singe away the upper layers of the mole (more than one session may be required). Freezing is another removal option that involves the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze the mole and remove it painlessly.
What are the Pre- and Post-procedure steps for mole removal?
Before a mole removal session, you will be consulting with the aesthetic doctor to help determine the type of mole, reasons for removal and the best-suited removal technique. The mole will also be inspected and examined carefully before a removal session is finalised. Once fixed, you will be given a topical or injected anaesthetic to numb the region, before the mole is removed using the appropriate technique.
After the mole removal is complete, the region will be bandaged and you will be asked to care for the skin for a few days, keeping it clean and sanitary. You may also be given certain steps to follow that can ensure a fast and speedy recovery post-procedure. You will be able to return to daily activities after the removal, but may experience soreness or aching. This should pass, and the region should heal itself, in about 2-3 weeks post-removal.
