About Mole Removal

Moles are commonly seen on body areas such as the face, the back, and the chest. It is defined as a small congenital growth in the human skin, usually slightly raised and dark. It is often present at birth or may appear as the person grows, and ceases to appear when a person reaches the age of 40.

Some people may be bothered with moles that appear on unwanted body areas such as the face, legs, neck and other more exposed areas. Others, however, consider mole as “beauty spots” which enhances their sex appeal. Moles usually do not change in size, shape and appearance; if it happens then medical consultation is needed as soon as possible since it may be an indication of malignancy.

Removing moles is common nowadays with goals such as to improve one’s appearance, reduce tissue trauma when a mole is located on areas prone to frequent rubbing against clothing and jewelries and especially when a mole arises in areas exposed to frequent shaving like a man’s chin or a woman’s underarm; or in worst cases, when cancer is suspected. A biopsy is needed to detect malignancy if a mole changes in size, shape and appearance.

There have been a variety of methods in removing moles. It may be through a surgical procedure or by natural means. Surgical procedures include excision through stitching, cauterization, laser surgery procedure or shave biopsy. When removing moles through stitching, the mole is cut from its base and the area is sutured. It is commonly used when malignancy is suspected. Cauterization involves searing the mole with the use of a cautery pen or apparatus. Bleeding is less likely to occur in cauterization and no suturing is necessary. Laser mole removal is the latest method in removing moles. It is the least invasive procedure in mole removal, producing less scarring and less bleeding. Shave biopsy requires the use of anesthesia in order to numb nerve endings to facilitate the removal of the mole above the skin surface.

Natural methods of removing moles have been introduced in the recent years. It does not involve stitching and anesthesia, and costs less compared to the surgical mole removal procedures. These substances can be easily found anywhere. Examples of these substances are garlic, tea tree oil, castor oil, pineapple, onion juice, baking soda, honey and cauliflower. Its extracts are rubbed on the skin gently on regular intervals at a daily basis.

When a mole is removed, it is less likely to grow once again but there are instances when the mole will resurface and in such cases, tends to appear darker in color. Removing moles usually take less than an hour depending on what procedure is used; like in laser mole removal which only takes 10 minutes. Whatever method of mole removal is chosen, consulting an expert clinician should be always put into consideration. The physician should discuss the cost, the risks and other factors. One should understand the need for undergoing such procedure and the things to expect during and after the entire course.