How to Get a Cosmetic Mole Removed
The presence of moles on the skin’s surface is a common condition. Nearly all people have at least a few moles – some of which may even be present from birth. In some cases, the moles are located in less visible areas and are not a source of bother or concern. But for some people, the mole is very visible or in a bothersome area. For these people, cosmetic mole removal can be a blessing in a number of ways.
If you are interested in having a mole removed for cosmetic reasons, this article will give you all of the basic information you need to know.
What is a Mole?
A mole is a raised area on the skin. A mole can range in color from very light brown to nearly black (this often depends on the individual’s natural skin tone). Moles can be quite small or rather large. They can be perfectly round or irregularly shaped. Moles can form anywhere, from the face to the arms to the private regions of the body.
Some models (most notably Cindy Crawford) call their visible moles “beauty marks” and the moles actually become a part of their appeal. But not everyone likes having visible moles, and some moles can even become dangerous if not removed.
Why Remove Moles?
Most moles are benign (medically harmless) but some moles may be pre-cancerous or cancerous. In general, moles that are round and smooth and do not change in appearance are benign, although to be sure, have a dermatologist check each mole and test any that look suspicious. Moles that are irregularly shaped, have a bumpy surface, change in appearance or begin to scab or ooze may be dangerous and should be checked by a dermatologist.
Whether you want to have a mole removed for purely cosmetic or medical reasons, this is an extremely safe, common and easy procedure overall. Many, many people have moles removed each year for all kinds of reasons, even if few talk about it. However, if you plan to have a suspicious-looking mole removed, you should definitely have a dermatologist check it out first and biopsy it if needed and then you can have the cosmetic mole removal procedure done.
The Steps to Cosmetic Mole Surgery
The procedure of mole removal is considered part of a comprehensive skin care regime. Not only will you no longer have to worry about that mole ever becoming dangerous because it won’t be there anymore, but your skin will look smoother after the procedure is done.
If you decide to have a mole removal procedure, here are the steps to take:
– First, choose a cosmetic surgeon to perform the procedure. If you don’t have a surgeon you can do an internet search in your area by typing in your location and description (i.e. “Chelsea Cosmetics”) to find referrals.
– Next, schedule your consultation with your chosen surgeon so you can get all your questions answered.
– Schedule the date for your procedure and follow your surgeon’s pre-procedure guidelines to the letter.
– Following the procedure, again follow all of your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions precisely.
During the Procedure
There are several ways to remove a cosmetic mole. All are outpatient surgeries requiring only topical anesthetic. The method your cosmetic surgeon chooses will depend on several variables, including the size and location of your mole and if you want just one or several moles removed. In nearly every case, a mole removal procedure can be completed in less than an hour.
The most common procedure is to topically numb the area around the mole. Your surgeon will then use a scalpel to remove the mole and a bit of skin surrounding it. After the mole is removed your surgeon will stitch up the area. Another option is to shave off the mole, and this method doesn’t require any stitches (which can be ideal if you have ever experienced any allergy to sutures or stitches). For shallow surface moles, laser treatment is another method your surgeon may opt to use.
After the Procedure
After your procedure, your surgeon may prescribe some topical cream or antibiotic to use. You may be instructed on what to take if you have any pain, although pain is seldom an issue. Depending on the method your surgeon selects, the area where the mole has been removed may scab over as it heals. You may see a bit of swelling or redness around the area as it heals. If there is any scarring, your surgeon will be able to prescribe a treatment to fade the scar.
In most cases, your surgeon will have you return for a post-operative check-up within one or a few weeks of the procedure. When you return will depend on the specifics of your surgery.
Next Steps
Now that you have a thorough overview of how mole removal fits in with an overall skin care plan, what occurs during a mole removal surgical procedure, why people have moles removed and what you can expect following surgery, you may feel ready to schedule your own cosmetic mole removal surgery.
If this describes you, follow the steps in “The Steps to Cosmetic Mole Surgery” to select a surgeon and schedule your own procedure. Then you will be on your way to smoother, clearer skin and a mole-free future.