Mole Removal Surgery

Mole Removal Surgery – Moles are also referred to as nevi and these are areas with accumulation of melanin pigment. These maybe formed due to various reasons such as:-

1. Birthmarks,

2. Vascular origin- hemangiomas

3. Benign or precancerous lesions

4. Prolonged to the sun

Very few people persist with these. Most people like to get these removed by getting surgery done. The two main surgical methods employed for the removal of moles are:-

1. Excision followed by the application of stitches.

2. Cauterization following their excision

Currently research is still going on for the introduction of lasers as a treatment modality for removal of moles. There are various steps that are involved in the mole removal surgery which are mentioned below:-

1. Consulting a doctor or dermatologist- First of all when you visit the specialist you will point out the mole which needs to be removed. They might ask you to get a biopsy done initially to rule out any malignant changes. After the biopsy the skin is referred to as malignant if the tests are positive. If the tests are negative then the specialist will furnish all details regarding the procedure including the cost and the risks involved as well as he the post-surgical care that will be required.

2. During surgery- The area needs to be sterilized with alcohol and anesthetized properly.

3. Removal of moles- The surgical excision if the mole involves the cutting up of the mole with a scalpel. Along with the mole the adjacent skin area and the part of the skin lying below the mole is also removed to ensure that there is no recurrence of the mole.

4. Cost of the surgery- This procedure is slightly on the expensive side and it may cost a patient somewhere in the range of 120 to 200$ to get the work done. This does not include the additional costs that may be incurred. So you would do well to get an estimate of the total amount you would be required to pay once the surgery is completed.

5. Post-surgical care- After care following a surgery is most important. So one should clean the area at least two times a day following surgery. You can use hydrogen peroxide for the same and then apply an antibiotic cream. Also you should make sure that you are not out in the sun for too long. The wound usually takes around 2 to 3 weeks to heal completely. Also you should bear in mind that if the scar is large in dimensions then it might not disappear completely.

6. Post-surgical infections- If the area that has been operated upon is not taken care of by cleaning it regularly or by applying the antibiotic ointment then it may become susceptible to infections and that may lead to further complications. Also the scab over the wound should not be itched on or rubbed as it may lead to permanent scarring.

So now that you know the steps involved in the mole removal surgery you would do well to give this thought sometime. After careful consideration only you should make up your mind and opt for this surgery.

Also you can always explore non-surgical options which might not remove the mole completely but the patient undergoing this type of treatment is not at a risk and can always explore the surgical option later if required.