How do you properly care for stitches after mole removal. What are the best practices for wound care following skin lesion excision. When should you seek medical attention during the healing process. How can you minimize scarring after skin lesion removal.

Understanding Skin Lesion Removal Procedures

Skin lesion removal is a common medical procedure used to address various skin conditions, including moles, warts, basal cell carcinomas, and other benign or potentially cancerous growths. The aftercare process is crucial for proper healing and minimizing complications. This comprehensive guide will explore different removal techniques and provide expert advice on post-procedure care.

Common Skin Lesion Removal Techniques

• Shave excision
• Scissor excision
• Cryosurgery
• Electrodesiccation

Each technique requires specific aftercare instructions, which your healthcare provider will explain in detail. Understanding these methods can help you better navigate the healing process and know what to expect.

Essential Care for Stitches After Skin Lesion Removal

Proper care for stitches is vital to ensure optimal healing and minimize the risk of infection. Here are the key steps to follow:

1. Keep the area covered for the first 24 to 48 hours post-procedure.
2. After this initial period, gently clean the site with cool water and mild soap.
3. Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel to avoid irritation.
4. Apply petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment as recommended by your healthcare provider.
5. Replace the bandage with a clean one if instructed to do so.
6. Maintain cleanliness by washing the site 1 to 2 times daily.

Is it necessary to keep the stitches dry at all times? While it’s important to keep the area clean, brief exposure to water during gentle washing is generally acceptable. However, avoid soaking the stitches or exposing them to prolonged moisture, as this can increase the risk of infection and delay healing.

Managing Open Wounds After Lesion Removal

In some cases, your healthcare provider may opt not to close the wound with sutures. This approach requires specific care to promote healing from the bottom up:

• Clean the wound 1 to 2 times daily with gentle washing.
• Prevent crust formation by keeping the area moisturized.
• Apply petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment as directed.
• If using a dressing, carefully remove it to avoid damaging new tissue.
• Avoid harsh cleansers, alcohol, peroxide, iodine, or antibacterial soaps.

How long does it typically take for an open wound to heal after skin lesion removal? The healing time can vary depending on the size and location of the wound, as well as individual factors. Generally, small wounds may heal within 1-2 weeks, while larger ones can take several weeks to a month. Consistent care and following your healthcare provider’s instructions can help optimize the healing process.

Post-Cryotherapy Care: What to Expect and How to Manage

Cryotherapy, a common treatment for various skin lesions, involves freezing the affected area. After this procedure, you may experience:

• Redness in the treated area
• Blister formation within hours (clear, red, or purple in color)
• Mild pain for up to 3 days

To care for the area post-cryotherapy:

1. Wash the treated site gently once or twice daily.
2. Use a bandage only if necessary to protect against friction or injury.
3. Allow the scab to form and fall off naturally (usually within 1 to 3 weeks).
4. Resist the urge to pick at the scab, as this can lead to scarring.

Do you need to apply any special ointments after cryotherapy? In most cases, no special ointments are required. However, your healthcare provider may recommend a moisturizer or antibiotic ointment in specific situations. Always follow their personalized advice for your unique case.

Crucial Tips for Optimal Healing and Scar Prevention

To ensure the best possible outcome after skin lesion removal, consider these important tips:

• Minimize strenuous activity to prevent wound reopening.
• Maintain proper hand hygiene when caring for the wound.
• Be gentle when washing areas near the wound, especially on the scalp.
• Follow wound care instructions diligently to minimize scarring.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed for discomfort.
• Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

Can you speed up the healing process after skin lesion removal? While the body has its own healing timeline, you can support the process by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and strictly following your healthcare provider’s aftercare instructions.

Recognizing Signs of Complications: When to Seek Medical Attention

While most skin lesion removals heal without issues, it’s crucial to be aware of potential complications. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice:

• Increased pain or swelling at the wound site
• Redness spreading beyond the immediate area
• Unusual discharge or foul odor from the wound
• Fever or chills
• Reopening of the wound
• Persistent bleeding

How can you differentiate between normal healing sensations and signs of infection? Normal healing may involve mild discomfort, itching, or a pulling sensation. However, if you experience increasing pain, warmth, or redness around the wound, especially if accompanied by fever or pus-like discharge, these could indicate an infection requiring prompt medical attention.

Long-Term Skin Care: Protecting Your Skin Post-Removal

After your skin has healed from the lesion removal, it’s important to implement long-term care strategies to protect your skin and prevent future issues:

1. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, especially on the treated area.
2. Perform regular self-examinations to monitor for new or changing lesions.
3. Maintain a healthy skincare routine with gentle, non-irritating products.
4. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in skin-supporting nutrients.
5. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, which can impact skin health.

Should you continue to monitor the site where the lesion was removed? Yes, it’s advisable to keep an eye on the area where the lesion was removed. While recurrence is uncommon for benign lesions, it’s possible for new growths to develop. Regular self-examinations and annual check-ups with a dermatologist can help catch any potential issues early.

Advanced Scar Management Techniques

For those concerned about scarring after skin lesion removal, there are several advanced techniques that can help minimize their appearance:

• Silicone sheets or gels: These can help flatten and fade scars over time.
• Massage therapy: Gentle massage can improve circulation and break down scar tissue.
• Topical treatments: Vitamin E, cocoa butter, or specialized scar creams may help improve appearance.
• Professional treatments: Laser therapy, microneedling, or chemical peels can be effective for more prominent scars.

When is the best time to start scar treatment after skin lesion removal? It’s generally recommended to wait until the wound has fully healed and any stitches have been removed before starting scar treatment. This is typically around 2-4 weeks after the procedure, but your healthcare provider can give you specific guidance based on your individual case.

Psychological Aspects of Skin Lesion Removal and Recovery

The process of having a skin lesion removed and the subsequent healing period can have psychological impacts that are often overlooked. It’s important to address these aspects for comprehensive care:

• Body image concerns: Changes in appearance, even minor ones, can affect self-esteem.
• Anxiety about recurrence: Fear of the lesion returning or new ones developing is common.
• Stress during the healing process: Worrying about proper care and optimal results can be stressful.
• Adjustment to new skincare routines: Incorporating new habits can be challenging.

How can you cope with anxiety or stress related to skin lesion removal? Open communication with your healthcare provider about your concerns is crucial. They can provide reassurance, additional information, and resources if needed. Some find it helpful to join support groups or speak with a mental health professional to address any persistent anxiety or body image issues.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Factors for Optimal Wound Healing

Your diet and lifestyle choices can significantly impact the healing process after skin lesion removal. Consider the following factors to support optimal recovery:

1. Protein intake: Adequate protein is essential for tissue repair and regeneration.
2. Vitamin C: This nutrient plays a crucial role in collagen formation and wound healing.
3. Zinc: Important for immune function and tissue repair.
4. Hydration: Proper fluid intake supports overall healing and skin health.
5. Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for the body’s regenerative processes.
6. Stress management: Chronic stress can impair wound healing.

What specific foods can promote faster wound healing after skin lesion removal? Foods rich in the aforementioned nutrients can be beneficial. These include lean meats, fish, eggs, citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. A balanced diet with a variety of these foods can support your body’s natural healing processes.

Understanding Different Types of Skin Lesions and Their Removal Processes

Various types of skin lesions require different removal approaches, which can affect the aftercare process. Common types include:

• Moles (nevi): Usually removed via excision or shave removal.
• Skin tags: Often removed using scissors, electrocautery, or cryosurgery.
• Warts: Typically treated with cryotherapy, laser, or topical medications.
• Basal cell carcinomas: May require Mohs surgery or other specialized techniques.
• Actinic keratoses: Often treated with cryotherapy or topical medications.

How does the type of lesion affect the removal process and subsequent care? The nature of the lesion determines the most appropriate removal technique, which in turn influences the aftercare required. For instance, a simple mole excision might need stitches and wound care, while a wart treated with cryotherapy may require different aftercare focused on blister management and preventing infection.

Technological Advancements in Skin Lesion Removal and Aftercare

The field of dermatology is constantly evolving, with new technologies improving both the removal process and aftercare for skin lesions:

1. Advanced imaging techniques: Help in precise lesion identification and removal.
2. Laser technologies: Offer less invasive removal options for certain lesions.
3. Smart dressings: Incorporate antimicrobial properties or growth factors to enhance healing.
4. Telemedicine: Allows for remote follow-up and monitoring of the healing process.
5. 3D printing: Used to create custom wound dressings or even skin grafts.

How are these technological advancements improving patient outcomes? These innovations are leading to more precise removals, reduced scarring, faster healing times, and improved monitoring of the recovery process. For instance, telemedicine allows healthcare providers to assess wound healing remotely, potentially catching and addressing complications earlier.

Environmental Considerations in Wound Healing

The environment plays a significant role in the healing process after skin lesion removal. Consider these factors:

• Temperature and humidity: Can affect wound moisture levels and healing rates.
• Air quality: Pollutants can potentially irritate the wound or slow healing.
• UV exposure: Can impact scar formation and overall skin health.
• Occupational hazards: Certain work environments may pose risks to healing wounds.

How can you optimize your environment for better wound healing? Maintain a clean, moderate-temperature environment with appropriate humidity levels. Use air purifiers if air quality is a concern. Protect the wound from direct sunlight and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or irritants. If your occupation poses risks, discuss protective measures with your healthcare provider.

The Role of Genetics in Wound Healing and Scar Formation

Genetic factors can significantly influence how an individual’s skin heals after lesion removal:

1. Healing rate: Some people naturally heal faster due to genetic predisposition.
2. Scar formation: Certain genetic factors can increase the likelihood of keloid or hypertrophic scars.
3. Pigmentation changes: Genetics play a role in how skin pigment responds to injury.
4. Immune response: Genetic variations can affect the body’s inflammatory and immune reactions during healing.

Can understanding your genetic predisposition help in managing wound care? While you can’t change your genetics, knowing your predispositions can help you and your healthcare provider tailor your aftercare plan. For example, if you’re prone to keloid scarring, early intervention with scar management techniques might be recommended.

Integrating Complementary Therapies in Skin Lesion Removal Aftercare

While traditional medical care is essential, some individuals find complementary therapies helpful in supporting the healing process:

• Acupuncture: May help with pain management and potentially improve circulation.
• Aromatherapy: Certain essential oils have antimicrobial and skin-soothing properties.
• Herbal remedies: Some herbs are traditionally used to support skin healing.
• Mind-body techniques: Practices like meditation can help manage stress and potentially support healing.

Is it safe to use complementary therapies alongside conventional aftercare? While many complementary therapies can be safe and potentially beneficial, it’s crucial to discuss any additional treatments with your healthcare provider. Some therapies may interact with conventional treatments or be contraindicated for certain individuals. Always prioritize the aftercare plan prescribed by your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, proper aftercare following skin lesion removal is crucial for optimal healing and minimizing complications. By understanding the various aspects of wound care, recognizing potential issues, and following your healthcare provider’s instructions, you can support your body’s natural healing processes and achieve the best possible outcomes. Remember that each individual’s healing journey is unique, and patience is key as your skin recovers. If you have any concerns during the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and support.

Skin lesion removal-aftercare Information | Mount Sinai

Shave excision – skin aftercare; Excision of skin lesions – benign aftercare; Skin lesion removal – benign aftercare; Cryosurgery – skin aftercare; BCC – removal aftercare; Basal cell cancer – removal aftercare; Actinic keratosis – removal aftercare; Wart -removal aftercare; Squamous cell-removal aftercare; Mole – removal aftercare; Nevus – removal aftercare; Nevi – removal aftercare; Scissor excision aftercare; Skin tag removal aftercare; Mole removal aftercare; Skin cancer removal aftercare; Birthmark removal aftercare; Molluscum contagiosum – removal aftercare; Electrodesiccation – skin lesion removal aftercare

How to Care for Stitches

Stitches are special threads that are sewn through the skin at an injury site to bring the edges of a wound together. Care for your stitches and wound as follows:

• Keep the area covered for the first 24 to 48 hours after stitches have been placed.
• After 24 to 48 hours, gently wash the site with cool water and soap. Pat dry the site with a clean paper towel.
• Your health care provider may recommend the application of petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment on the wound.
• If there was a bandage over the stitches, replace it with a new clean bandage.
• Keep the site clean and dry by washing it 1 to 2 times daily.
• Your provider should tell you when to come back to get the stitches removed. If not, contact your provider.

How to Care for an Open Wound

If your provider does not close your wound again with sutures, you need to care for it at home. The wound will heal from the bottom up to the top.

You may be asked to keep a dressing over the wound, or your provider may suggest leaving the wound open to air.

Keep the site clean and dry by washing it 1 to 2 times a day. You will want to prevent a crust from forming or being pulled off. To do this:

• Your provider may suggest using petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment on the wound.
• If there is a dressing and it sticks to the wound, wet it and try again, unless your provider instructed you to pull it off dry.

Do not use skin cleansers, alcohol, peroxide, iodine, or soap with antibacterial chemicals. These can damage the wound tissue and slow healing.

After Cryotherapy

The treated area may look red afterwards. A blister will often form within a few hours. It may appear clear or have a red or purple color.

You may have a little pain for up to 3 days.

Most of the time, no special care is needed during healing. The area should be washed gently once or twice a day and kept clean. A bandage or dressing should only be needed if the area rubs against clothes or may be easily injured.

A scab forms and will usually peel away on its own within 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the area treated. Do not pick the scab off.

Important Tips

The following tips may help:

• Prevent the wound from re-opening by keeping strenuous activity to a minimum.
• Make sure your hands are clean when you care for the wound.
• If the wound is on your scalp, it is OK to shampoo and wash. Be gentle and avoid a lot of exposure to water.
• Take proper care of your wound to prevent further scarring.
• You can take pain medicine, such as acetaminophen, as directed for pain at the wound site. Ask your provider about other pain medicines (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) to make sure they will not cause bleeding.
• Follow-up with your provider to make sure the wound is healing properly.

When to Call the Doctor

Call your provider right away if:

• There is any redness, pain, or yellow pus around the injury. This could mean there is an infection.
• There is bleeding at the injury site that will not stop after 10 minutes of direct pressure.
• You have a fever greater than 100°F (37.8°C).
• There is pain at the site that will not go away, even after taking pain medicine.
• The wound has split open.
• Your stitches or staples have come out too soon.

After full healing has taken place, call your provider if the skin lesion does not appear to be gone.

Addison P. Plastic surgery including common skin and subcutaneous lesions. In: Garden OJ, Parks RW, eds. Principles and Practice of Surgery. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 18.

Dinulos JGH. Dermatologic surgical procedures. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif’s Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 27.

Newell KA. Wound closure. In: Richard Dehn R, Asprey D, eds. Essential Clinical Procedures. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 32.

Last reviewed on: 5/31/2022

Reviewed by: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

What to Expect and Aftercare

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by

Frederick L. Durden, Jr, MD, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon & Microsurgical Reconstructive Surgeon.

This page was updated on October 20, 2022.

Upon noticing an abnormal mole or skin growth, your doctor may recommend its removal. For most small moles, this procedure is simple and well-tolerated. Still, it’s helpful to understand how the procedure works.

Why are mole removals done?

Mole removals are typically done for health reasons—if your care team suspects that a mole may be precancerous or cancerous.

Sometimes a mole may be removed for cosmetic reasons, especially if it’s on your face, neck or another noticeable area.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with most cases falling into one of two types: melanoma or nonmelanoma.

Skin cancer is treated most effectively if caught early, which is why it’s crucial to speak up if you’re worried about a mole on your body.

Skin cancer is most commonly found in areas of the body frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, neck, hands and arms.

However, it’s important to remember that not all moles are cancerous. The only way to officially diagnose a cancerous mole is by undergoing a biopsy.

What to expect during the procedure

If your doctor has scheduled a mole removal procedure, you may receive instructions on how to prepare. Ask your care team any questions that you may have about the process and recovery time. Unless instructed otherwise, it’s fine to eat and drink before the procedure.

For most small mole removals, a biopsy is an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll be able to go home after it’s over.

• Typically, your doctor numbs the skin first with a local anesthetic, which is injected into the skin with a needle.
• Your doctor then surgically removes the mole.
• Stitches may be required after, with your doctor providing instructions for how to care for the stitches and when they’ll need to be removed.

Due to the use of a numbing anesthetic, the pain during the procedure is often minimal—you may feel some pressure and temporary discomfort.

What to expect after the procedure

There are four common types of biopsy procedures used, with your doctor then sending the tissue sample to a pathologist for testing. There, it’s examined under a microscope for any cancer cells or abnormal cells.

The four types of biopsies are:

Shave (tangential) biopsy—The doctor uses a medical razor blade to shave off the top layers of the skin, removing the skin cells. To stop any bleeding, the doctor will apply an ointment or cauterize the wound using a gentle electrical current.

Punch biopsy—The doctor uses a tiny round tool, similar to a cookie-cutter, to puncture a rounded area of skin and remove a deeper sample of skin than with the shave biopsy. The skin is likely to require stitches after the procedure.

Excisional and incisional biopsies—If a mole or tumor is thought to have grown into deeper layers of skin tissue, the doctor may perform an excisional or incisional biopsy. During an excisional biopsy, the entire tumor is surgically removed with a surgical knife. For an incisional biopsy, only a portion of the tumor is removed. Afterward, stitches are applied.

Risks, complications and aftercare

A mole removal is a minor surgical procedure that is generally well-tolerated. However, with any surgical procedure, there are risks. Scarring is always possible after a mole removal. There is also a risk of infection, so watch for:

• Redness
• Pain
• Swelling

Following your doctor’s instructions is the best way to avoid complications. If you have stitches, they’ll play an important role in helping your skin recover. Make sure to treat them with care:

• Keep the area covered for at least 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
• Gently wash the area with soap and water.
• Keep the wound site clean, and return to your doctor for follow-up appointments as scheduled.

Even without stitches, some aftercare is important to prevent scarring or infection. Wounds heal from the inside out toward the surface and take time to heal.

• You may be asked to keep a dressing over the wound and keep it moist with petroleum jelly or another ointment, as directed.
• Avoid using cleansers, alcohol-based products or peroxides, soaps or other harsh chemicals on the open wound.

Skin Care After Laser Mole Removal

A mole is a pigmented growth on the skin that is benign. Often such a nevus can interfere or attract too much attention to itself. A nevus can be congenital or acquired, and its hue is brownish, reddish, purple, or dark. A mole appears due to an excessive accumulation of pigment cells that are located between the dermis and epidermis.
Removal of a mole is often performed if its shape and size has changed, if the neoplasm is often injured, causing psychological discomfort. One of the most popular methods for removing a mole with a short rehabilitation period is the laser method. Caring for a mole after laser removal is simple, the effect is local.
Indications for disposal:

• Education looks unaesthetic;
• The size of education has changed;
• There was discomfort in the field of education;
• Mole is constantly injured.

How to care for a wound after removing a mole

In order for the skin to heal faster, you need to follow the recommendations after removing moles on the face and other parts of the body. After removal, a crust appears at the site of the mole – it cannot be torn off and injured, it peels off on its own in 1-2 weeks. The crust after laser removal of a mole performs a protective function against infection.
On the recommendation of a doctor, you can smear the site of removal of the mole with healing ointments and antibiotic creams. Avoid contact with water, do not steam the treatment area. If you tear off the crust ahead of time, there will be a risk of scarring.
After removing the mole with a laser, the crust disappears on its own, after which pinkish skin forms in its place. It must be protected from sunlight. It is advisable to use sun protection ointments to avoid hyperpigmentation.
How the site of removal of moles with a laser will heal depends on the patient’s compliance with the doctor’s recommendations. In addition, the quality of the operation affects the result. To eliminate a nevus, contact our specialists at the Medial clinic, which has been specializing in such operations for almost 20 years.

Restrictions after mole removal

Before performing the procedure, the doctor examines the nevus using a dermatoscope. Removal with a laser is carried out quickly and painlessly, in about 10-30 minutes, depending on the size of the formation.
Restriction after removal of moles is a visit to the pool, solarium or beach to avoid infection and hyperpigmentation. You can treat moles after laser removal with antiseptics, after the crust falls off, you can use sunscreens.
What not to do after removing moles:

• Sunbathe in a solarium or in the open sun;
• Drink alcohol after removing a mole;
• Apply cosmetics to an unhealed wound;
• Rub the place of removal and peel off the crust.

The procedure for removing a nevus practically does not affect the usual way of life, it is not required to wear a bandage.
If all the recommendations after removing the mole with a laser are followed, scars usually do not remain. Procedures can be performed at any time of the year, but it is advisable to do this in autumn or winter. After removing the mole, you can go to the pool when the crust falls off and skin appears in its place.

Possible consequences

If the procedure is performed incorrectly, or the recommendations on how to care for the wound after removing the mole are not followed, complications may develop. These include incomplete removal of the nevus, infection and scarring. Scars can form due to the characteristics of the body, as well as if the crust was torn off prematurely.
Removal of nevi with a laser is safe. However, there is a risk of incomplete elimination of a new formation, then some of the cells remain in the skin, and the mole appears again. To avoid such consequences, you need to contact only experienced doctors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many patients are interested in when it is possible to sunbathe after removing a mole with a laser, whether it is possible to play sports after removing a mole, what restrictions should be observed. It is important to clarify the features of care before performing the operation in order to reduce the risk of complications.
Can I sunbathe after mole removal?
After performing the manipulation, you should not sunbathe for 3-4 weeks. Ignoring this recommendation can lead to the development of hyperpigmentation, the appearance of a white spot at the site of removal. Once the scab has fallen off, new skin should be protected from the sun with a high SPF.
If you remove the crust ahead of time, a scar may appear, which will differ in color. In this regard, it is not recommended to visit the beaches or swim in the pool until the wound is completely healed and the pinkish spot disappears after removing the crust.

Can I use cosmetics after the procedure?
Do not use decorative cosmetics on the area that has been treated with a laser. This can lead to infection, premature rejection of the crust. The place can only be treated with antiseptics and healing ointments, which the doctor advised.
You should not wipe the skin of the face or body where the procedure was performed with alcohol, apply scrubs or acids, alkaline compounds, depilatory creams and other care products. This can lead to complications that will then be difficult to eliminate, increasing the risk of scarring.

Can moles be removed during menstruation?
There is no prohibition on removing a mole during menstruation, but it is recommended to postpone this procedure if you feel unwell. During menstruation, sensitivity increases, discomfort may occur during exposure. The period of menstruation does not affect the result after removal.
There are also no restrictions on the number of moles removed, since the specialist at the reception can give the final recommendations. If you want to remove a mole on the body in the intimate area, you must first consult with your doctor about the appropriateness of this procedure and the urgency of implementation.

Can I play sports after removing a mole?
In the first 2 weeks after the removal of the mole, it is not recommended to play sports. This is due to the fact that if sweat gets on the crust, it can get wet, increasing the risk of infection or irritation. If this happens, the risk of scar formation will become higher and it will be difficult to get rid of it later.
For a while, it is recommended to give up walking in the open sun, visiting a sauna or bath, taking a hot bath. On the day of the procedure, you should not wet the wound, after which you can wash in the shower with warm water, without soaking the crust and without rubbing it.
Without the recommendation of a doctor, adhesive plasters or dressings are usually not used on the wound so that it does not get wet and inflamed. If there are complications after the removal of the nevus, consult a doctor, you can not treat them yourself.

Mole removal | Clinic of Dermatology Prof. J.Kisisa

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Procedures

Removal of moles

Skin cancer can develop from an existing mole or from previously intact skin. Only by examining and checking the mole with a dermatologist can you determine the level of its risk. It is also necessary to examine other skin neoplasms.

If the mole grows rapidly, changes color, is asymmetrical, itches, hurts or bleeds, you should immediately consult a dermatologist. The faster the mole is removed, the lower the risk of a malignant tumor.

Surgical mole removal

Excision is the most common way to remove moles. Cutting is performed with a safety margin, retreating from a few millimeters to several centimeters from the tumor. This method allows you to best examine the mole under a microscope (histological examination) and find out the nature and nature of the mole.

Cutting out moles allows you to remove them completely.

Excision leaves the smallest risk that the mole will grow back.

Laser mole removal

Laser procedures are mainly performed in simple cases when the mole is clearly visible on the top layer of the skin. Two types of lasers are used:

• Erbium laser (ER:YAG) is best suited for the face area, as the laser removes the top layer of skin very gently.
• CO2 lasers are used for a deeper effect, as they are more aggressive and powerful (larger scars remain).

Disadvantages of Laser Mole Removal

If a biopsy of the mole (taking and evaluating a sample of tissue under a microscope) has not been performed, it is not known whether the mole was malignant or benign.

When removing a mole with a laser, it is impossible to determine the actual size of the mole.

Mole removal with liquid oxygen

Removal with liquid oxygen or cryodestruction. This method is mainly suitable for superficial, benign moles. In the case of deeper moles, more aggressive freezing is required, which can lead to unpredictable scarring and damage to deeper structures. Histological evaluation is also impossible.

After removal of moles, if the neoplasm was malignant, or there are suspicions about the appearance of new neoplasms, it is recommended to make an appointment for a second appointment. Moles are usually rechecked after 3-12 months; 50% of people develop new neoplasms within 5 years.

Mole care before mole removal

• Never cut, pluck, pluck, or otherwise treat moles or any other skin tumors;
• In preparation for surgery, you should refrain from smoking for at least 3 days;
• Monitor blood pressure;
• Garlic, aspirin and other blood thinners should be avoided unless prescribed by a doctor.

Caring for moles after mole removal

• Careful care should be taken as directed by your physician;
• Do not injure (refrain from participating in active sports, do not pick or disturb in any other way) and do not wet the surgical site;
• Dressing should be done every day. The formed clots cannot be torn off, as they serve as the basis for wound healing;
• Pressure dressing should be applied for the first 3 days; on simple wounds (without suturing), a patch should be applied until the damaged area is completely filled with skin cells;

If adhesive strips (tight, tightening adhesives) are used, they must be restored if they fall off.