Mole Removal

A benign mole is a harmless one (not canerous or pre-cancerous).

Benign moles include Intradermal naevus, compound naevus, congenital naevus, epidermal naevus, benign pigmented naevus.

Depending on the type of mole, its position on the body and its size, they can be removed by shave excison or resection.

Resection is when the mole is cut out and the wound stitched closed.

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The choice of the above two treatments depends on the type of mole and an assessment of the best scar outcome possible.

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There is a small chance of the mole coming back with shave excision but in most cases, the lesser scarring outweighs any concerns about the small risk of it recurring in the future.

Mole removal is a local anaesthetic procedure.

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Moles should be sent for histology and both the above two removal methods allow for a sample to be sent.

If you have a mole that has noticeably changed, especially over a period of 3-6 months, or that you are worried about, it is best to get it seen to.

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The NHS offers a Two Week Rule pathway whereby the mole is seen by a Dermatologist within 2 weeks of being referred by your GP. It is good advice to get any suspicious moles seen by your GP who can advise if the mole should be dealt with by the NHS.

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Private treatment has a role if:

• You are having difficulty getting a mole checked on the NHS,

• cannot get to the hospital appointment at the given time in         work hours etc

• the anxiety of waiting, even on the two week pathway, gets          too much.

• You are concerned about the mole despite being told it is          benign.

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Suspicious moles are treated by resecting with a thin margin of skin around them and the wound stitched closed. We do not offer shave excision for moles we are suspicious of.

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All our histology is carried out by consultant histopathologists.

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At Interface Clinic, no GP referral is required, and patients can self-refer for treatment. If you have however seen your GP regarding your mole, then it is good practice to ask them for your notes for your medical records with us.

Dressings: A dressing will be applied to the area, which should be kept dry for at least 48 hours.

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Activity Restrictions: Strenuous activity should be avoided for a few days to reduce the risk of bleeding or irritation.

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Suture Removal: Typically 7 -14 days if removable (non absorbable) stitches are used. The time for suture removal depends on the site of the mole on the body.

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