Tattoo Removal
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is mole or cyst removal for?
- What does it involve?
- How is a mole or cyst removed?
- Will I need stitches?
- Will I have a scar?
- What are the other risks of surgery?
- What do I expect after surgery?
Mole removal surgery is applicable to men and women of all ages that would like to eliminate protruding moles that are repeatedly irritated by daily activities. Mole treatment is also suitable for those who feel that removal of facial moles and cysts may enhance their appearance. Symptoms that may indicate skin cancer include any mole or lesion that: Gets bigger - especially over 7mm (a quarter of an inch) in diameter Changes shape - look for an irregular edge Changes colour - if it darkens, becomes patchy or multi-shaded Becomes inflamed Is itchy or painful Bleeds or is crusty If any of these features are present you should have your mole reviewed by a GP
Moles and cysts are removed quickly and simply on an outpatient basis. A local anaesthetic is normally used. The majority of moles and cysts are removed by simple excision and, where only one or two exist, the procedure would normally take no more than twenty minutes.
The operation is usually carried out under a local anaesthetic, which means that the affected skin area will be completely numb but you stay awake. The exact technique used for removing the mole depends on factors such as what condition it is, its size and location. Most moles are removed with a scalpel and the wound closed with stitches. Some moles may be shaved down to the level of the surrounding skin. The operation will usually leave a scar. How big and noticeable this will be depends on the exact operation. It's quite normal for a scab to develop and this will generally heal within a week or two. Any inflammation will usually disappear within a few weeks. Most scars fade significantly over the first year.
Most full thickness mole and cyst removals will need stitches which will have to remain in place for usually 7-10 days. These will then have to be removed. If a shave excision is needed, usually only a dressing is required.
Mole and cyst removal will by its very nature leave a scar. This is intended to be far less noticeable that the original mole. Rarely some people with darker skin have an abnormal response to the healing process and end up with a larger than normal scar (keloid scars and hypertrophic scars).
As well as a small scar all operations to remove moles and cysts carry risks. Thankfully these are rare. There is the chance of bleeding, infections, changes to sensation to the skin, pain after the procedure and poor healing. These risks are small but are more common in people with certain medical conditions (such as diabetes) or in smokers.
You will be able to go home the same day when you feel ready. Most people will be able to drive afterwards (depending on the type and location of your wound). You should take it easy for a few days and take special care not to knock or bump the wound. Most people can expect to return to work. Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can usually be safely taken, follow instructions on the patient information leaflet or ask your pharmacist for advice. If you have had a lesion removed from your face a few extra pillows in bed may help ease swelling, and do not apply make up until it has fully healed. Most wounds will need to be kept completely clean and dry for 2 days, but afterwards may be cleaned with cool water. Care should be taken not to soak or scrub the wound until fully healed. Most dressings will need to be regularly changed, but usually after a week the wound can be left open to the air, unless there is the risk of rubbing/catching on clothing. Signs of an infection in the wound include increasing pain, wound swelling and redness, weeping pus or blood and an unpleasant smell.