Mole Removal

Mole removal is a common procedure for those looking to have moles removed for either cosmetic reasons, discomfort, or the mole’s suspicious nature that might suggest a risk of skin cancer. At St John & Elizabeth Hospital, our dermatological experts provide a safe, effective, and minimally invasive mole removal service, tailored to meet the individual needs and concerns of our patients. With state-of-the-art facilities and a compassionate approach, we ensure the highest standard of care and support throughout your journey with us.

Also known as: cosmetic mole excision, skin lesion removal

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Everything You Need to Know

Moles, medically known as nevi, are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on your body. While most moles are harmless, some may change over time and pose a risk of developing melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. This is why it’s important to monitor moles for any changes in size, shape, colour, or feel and consult with a healthcare professional if you notice any concerning changes.

Whether you’re seeking mole removal for aesthetic reasons, such as improving the appearance of your skin, or for health concerns, our team at St John & Elizabeth Hospital is here to guide you through every step. Our dermatologists are skilled in various mole removal techniques, including surgical excision, shave excision, and laser removal, ensuring a procedure that best suits your specific case.

Before Surgery

When you and your consultant have decided that mole removal is the best course of action for you, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Preparation is key to a smooth procedure and a swift recovery. Here are some steps to help you prepare:

Health Assessment: Prior to your surgery, you’ll be invited for a pre-operative assessment. This comprehensive health check includes blood tests and a review of your medical history to ensure you’re fit for the procedure.

Medication Review: Please inform your consultant about any medications you’re currently taking, especially blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin. Adjustments may be needed to minimise bleeding risks during and after surgery.

Skin Care: We recommend keeping the area around the mole clean and avoiding any skin irritants or harsh treatments a week before the surgery.

During Surgery

At St John & Elizabeth Hospital, we strive to make your mole removal procedure as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here’s what you can expect on the day:

Arrival: Upon your arrival, our friendly staff will welcome you and guide you through the check-in process. You’ll be shown to your private room where you can settle in and relax before the procedure.

Preparation: A nurse will meet with you to review your medical history and the specifics of the mole removal procedure. This is a great time to ask any last-minute questions you might have.

Anaesthesia: Mole removal is typically performed under local anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but the area around the mole will be numbed, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure. For larger or more complex moles, your consultant will discuss the best anaesthetic options with you beforehand.

The Procedure: Your consultant will carefully remove the mole, using techniques that aim to minimise scarring and achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome. The method of removal will depend on the mole’s size, type, and location. This process usually takes no longer than a few minutes for each mole.

Aftercare: Immediately after the mole has been removed, a small dressing will be applied to the area. Your consultant will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.

After Surgery

After your mole removal surgery at St John & Elizabeth Hospital, your comfort and recovery are our primary concerns. Here’s what you can expect in the days following the procedure:

Immediate Aftercare: You will be provided with detailed aftercare instructions before you leave the hospital. It’s crucial to follow these guidelines to ensure optimal healing and reduce the risk of infection.

Dressing Care: Keep the dressing dry and intact for the first few days after the surgery as advised by your consultant. You will be informed when it’s safe to remove or change the dressing.

Pain Management: Mole removal is generally not painful, but you may experience some soreness or discomfort around the treated area. Over-the-counter pain relief, such as paracetamol, is usually sufficient to manage any discomfort. Please avoid aspirin as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

Monitoring: Keep an eye on the surgery site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or unusual discharge. While infections are rare, it’s important to contact us immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

How to pay for your treatment

If you’re… paying for yourself

Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.

For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.

If you’re… insured

St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.

Find out more

Appointment

This initial consultation with our dermatologists involves examining the lesion and discussing your medical history and concerns. It’s a vital step towards understanding your needs and ensuring the best care.

Pre-Op Assessment

If needed, we may conduct a biopsy or other tests to better understand the lesion. Our team provides full support and information, ensuring you’re comfortable with the process.

Treatment Plan

Following diagnostics, we’ll outline your treatment options, from monitoring to removal, based on your specific needs. Our priority is to equip you with all the necessary information for an informed decision.

Preparation Guidance

Once a treatment path is chosen, we’ll guide you on pre-procedure steps, including medication adjustments or special care instructions, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your procedure.