Mole Removal
Aesthetic concerns are not the only reason patients consider having a mole removed. In Florida, effective skin care is key to avoiding moles caused by sunspots as well as sun damage and skin discoloration. The occurrence of these skin conditions increases the chance that a patient will develop skin cancer due to a cancerous mole. It’s vital to monitor moles for color and size progression. Dr. Poser of Poser Plastic Surgery Center examines, diagnoses, and removes moles. To learn more about mole removal and the range of dermatology treatments offered for Gainesville plastic surgery, contact us.
Mole Removal Procedure
At Poser Plastic Surgery Center, we consult with a significant portion of patients who seek mole-removal as well as patients who express concern about scarring resulting from a mole removal procedure. Our team can help in both situations by removing worrisome moles and helping to diminish the appearance of scarring through procedures, such as scar revision surgery and skin resurfacing treatment.
An increasing number of patients turn to Gainesville plastic surgeons to remove moles due to the concern of scarring to the skin following mole removal treatment. While Dr. Poser is happy to address any more concerns, there is no guarantee that removing a mole won’t leave a scar. The chance of scarring depends entirely on the size of the mole, the location of the mole, and the patient’s skin type.
Mole & Lesion Removal Treatment
An initial patient consultation with Dr. Poser is necessary before mole removal. During the consultation, the mole is examined and the treatment plan will be determined. Note that the majority of patients are able to successfully have their moles removed. We also offer lesion removal treatment, although lesion-removal treatment can be much more difficult to perform. Lesions are usually larger than moles and they may grow over a number of years. It is possible for both moles and lesions to be cancerous, so it is often necessary to have the lesion tested once it is removed. After a mole or lesion is removed, the sample is sent to our laboratory for histological analysis. An analysis is performed by a pathologist who reviews the sample to determine if it is cancerous. This analysis allows Dr. Poser to form any necessary subsequent treatment plans to ensure optimal health to the patient.
Reasons To Have A Mole Removed
Moles are common darkened spots and skin irregularities that form naturally. Many people are born with moles or notice the appearance of moles as they age. Sun exposure can increase the appearance of moles. While many moles are not cancerous, patients may find moles to be aesthetically displeasing. Additionally, it is possible for moles to develop cancerous cells and become a threat to patient health. By removing any moles from the body, patients experience both improved skin health and a boost in self-confidence.
Types Of Scars From Mole Removal
As mentioned, some scarring is normal and unavoidable when having a mole or lesion removed. However, advanced scarring is not typical and usually indicates improper treatment, poor healing, or infection. There are three types of advanced scarring that may occur. A spread scar is a common and flat scar that widens over time. A hypertrophic scar may be noticed as it becomes thick and large at the site of removal. Patients may also experience a keloid scar which grows outside the boundaries of the original lesion or mole. Dr. Poser is able to utilize skin resurfacing or keloid removal procedures, should a patient experience advanced scarring.
How Is A Mole Removed?
Dr. Poser can remove a mole in only a few minutes — more than one mole can also be removed during the same appointment. The typical mole removal procedure involves a technique using a very small blade and local anesthetic. Once the area is injected with anesthesia, the blade or scalpel is used to remove the mole at the level of the surrounding skin. Dr. Poser then uses a cautery device to stop the bleeding, which is typically very minimal. Dr. Poser may also cut the mole with a blade and suture the area thereafter. Through these procedures, the majority of patients heal quickly and require minimal after-treatment care to the affected area as well as minimal scarring from treatment.
Mole Removal Recovery
Depending on the location and the size and type of the mole removed, Dr. Poser will provide the patient with instructions for recovery. For the majority of patients, the recovery process following mole removal is simple. By keeping the area clean, free from strain, and free from injury, the surrounding tissue will adequately heal. If the mole removal requires stitches, the stitches will typically be removed after a week. Dr. Poser will advise patients of any necessary follow-up procedures to properly heal the area and replenish the skin through cosmetic treatments.