A mole removal is a safe and routine procedure done in dermatology offices everyday. Whether your mole removal is for medical or cosmetic reasons, it is important to be informed about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Read more about mole removals in Ellicott City MD to find out more.
Is Mole Removal Painful?
Mole removal is relatively painless procedure because your mole removal specialist uses a local numbing agent called lidocaine prior to removing the mole.
How Are Moles Removed?
After a visual inspection of your moles is performed, your dermatologist will determine if it is safe to perform the mole removal procedure. The mole removal can performed by:
- Shave removal where the mole removal specialist uses a surgical blade to shave the mole leaving a small wound to heal on its own
- Surgical excision where the mole removal specialist cuts out the entire mole and stitches the skin together.
If your mole removal specialist suspects that your moles may be atypical or cancerous, they will be sent to the lab to the tested. The results are usually ready in 1-2 weeks.
How Long Does The Mole Removal Procedure Take?
The entire mole removal procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to up to a half an hour per mole removed. Your mole removal specialist will let you know how much time is needed for the procedure prior to your surgical appointment.
What Is The Recovery From Mole Removal?
You will be able to move and walk out of the office after your mole removal procedure. Depending on the size of the mole removed, a small or large bandage will be applied to the site after the procedure. Wound care instructions will be reviewed with you before leaving the office. If you had stitches placed, you will be asked to return to the office in one to two weeks to have them removed. While it is normal to experience some tenderness or itching after a mole removal, anything painful, red, oozing, or bleeding should be followed up immediately by your mole removal specialist.
Can I Remove A Mole At Home?
It is NEVER advisable to remove your moles yourself at home. Not only are you putting yourself at risk for infection and uncontrolled bleeding, the moles you are attempting to remove may be cancerous moles that are never tested at the lab. If a cancerous mole is not properly examined and treated, it may spread elsewhere in the body. Making an appointment with a dermatology specialist, even for a typical mole, is always wise.
Call Danielle LeClair NP for Mole Removal In Ellicott City MD
If you are unhappy with your moles or you are concerned your moles could be dysplastic moles or a melanoma, we can help. Danielle LeClair NP offers mole removal options that can improve the appearance of your skin and mitigate any risks to your health. Call our office today at 410-870-8225 to schedule your appointment.
