What are the risks associated with at-home mole removal. How can attempting to remove moles yourself lead to serious health complications. Why is it crucial to consult a dermatologist for mole removal and skin cancer screening. What are the potential consequences of using DIY mole removal devices.

The Allure and Dangers of DIY Mole Removal

In recent times, the appeal of do-it-yourself solutions has extended to various aspects of our lives, including personal health care. However, when it comes to mole removal, the risks far outweigh any perceived benefits. At-home mole removal devices promising to burn, freeze, or use lasers to eliminate moles or skin tags have gained popularity, but they come with a host of potentially harmful side effects and unintended consequences.

Dr. Deborah S. Sarnoff, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation, strongly advises against these DIY methods, stating, “This isn’t like giving yourself a haircut. There are very serious risks associated with trying to remove a mole yourself, whether it’s with a tool called a mole removal pen, plasma corrector pen or something found around the house.”

Why are people tempted to remove moles at home?

• Convenience and accessibility of DIY devices
• Perceived cost savings compared to professional removal
• Desire for immediate results
• Misconception about the simplicity of the procedure

The Hidden Dangers of Misdiagnosis

One of the most significant risks associated with at-home mole removal is the inability to distinguish between benign and malignant lesions. Dermatologists undergo years of specialized training to recognize suspicious lesions, and even then, they perform biopsies to determine the exact nature of the specimen before deciding on a course of action.

Dr. Sarnoff warns, “You may chop off a mole you don’t like, thinking you’re saving money by not going to the doctor, but you might actually be chopping off a melanoma.” Melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, can rapidly spread to other organs if not detected and treated early.

Can at-home mole removal lead to undetected cancer spread?

Indeed, it can. If a primary melanoma is removed improperly at home, melanoma cells can remain in the skin and spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body without the individual’s knowledge. This scenario underscores the critical importance of professional diagnosis and treatment.

Infection Risks and Scarring Concerns

Another significant risk of DIY mole removal is infection. Home environments typically lack the sterile conditions and proper sanitation protocols observed in medical settings. Dr. Sarnoff points out that individuals attempting mole removal at home are unlikely to pay the same level of attention to tool sanitation, skin preparation, and postoperative care as a dermatologist would.

Infections not only delay healing but also increase the chances of scarring. Moreover, even without infection, the risk of scarring after an at-home removal is considerably higher compared to professional removal by a dermatologist.

What types of scars can result from DIY mole removal?

• Chicken pox-like, indented scars
• Hypertrophic, bumpy scars
• Discolored or hyperpigmented areas
• Keloid scars in susceptible individuals

The Perils of Partial Removal

Ineffective partial removal is another significant concern with at-home mole removal attempts. Dr. Sarnoff explains, “Basically, the removal may not totally work, and you end up only cutting off the top of the mole. This leaves some of the mole down in deeper layers of the skin, so you haven’t achieved the cosmetic look you want.”

Furthermore, tampering with a mole can cause complications if proper removal is desired in the future. Partial removal can alter the mole’s appearance, making it more challenging for dermatologists to assess and treat effectively.

How can partial removal complicate future treatments?

1. Altered appearance may mask potential malignancy
2. Scar tissue formation can interfere with proper assessment
3. Changes in cellular structure may lead to misdiagnosis
4. Increased difficulty in complete removal due to altered tissue planes

The Dangers of DIY Laser Devices

Dr. Sarnoff cautions against the use of at-home laser devices for mole removal. “Zapping” a mole with such devices can cause cellular changes that make benign moles appear problematic under microscopic examination. This alteration can lead to misdiagnosis, potentially resulting in unnecessary melanoma treatments.

How can DIY laser treatments lead to misdiagnosis?

The use of lasers on moles can cause atypical changes in the cells, making them appear suspicious to pathologists. These changes may mimic the characteristics of melanoma, leading to a false positive diagnosis. Consequently, an individual might undergo unnecessary and potentially harmful treatments for a cancer they don’t actually have.

The Importance of Professional Dermatological Care

Given the numerous risks associated with at-home mole removal, Dr. Sarnoff strongly advises against it. “I would never recommend at-home mole or skin tag removal,” she states emphatically. “Call a dermatologist, and don’t take no for an answer if you’re concerned about something new, changing or unusual on your skin.”

Professional dermatological care ensures proper diagnosis, safe removal techniques, and appropriate follow-up care. Board-certified dermatologists have the expertise to identify potentially dangerous lesions and the skills to remove them with minimal scarring and complications.

What are the benefits of professional mole removal?

• Accurate diagnosis of benign vs. malignant lesions
• Proper removal techniques to minimize scarring
• Sterile environment to prevent infections
• Comprehensive follow-up care and monitoring
• Access to advanced treatment options if necessary

Adapting to Healthcare Changes During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly changed the landscape of healthcare delivery, including dermatological services. However, Dr. Sarnoff emphasizes that this should not deter individuals from seeking professional care for skin concerns.

Many dermatologists have adapted their practices to accommodate patient needs while adhering to safety protocols. Teledermatology appointments and photo consultations have become increasingly common, allowing patients to receive initial assessments without in-person visits.

How have dermatologists adapted their services during the pandemic?

1. Offering teledermatology consultations
2. Providing photo-based assessments
3. Implementing strict sanitization and social distancing measures in clinics
4. Prioritizing urgent cases for in-person appointments
5. Utilizing personal protective equipment (PPE) during examinations and procedures

The Future of Mole Removal and Skin Cancer Detection

As technology continues to advance, the field of dermatology is evolving to provide more efficient and accurate methods of mole assessment and removal. While these advancements may eventually lead to improved at-home screening tools, the importance of professional diagnosis and treatment remains paramount.

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence-assisted imaging and non-invasive diagnostic tools show promise in enhancing early detection of skin cancers. However, these technologies are designed to supplement, not replace, the expertise of trained dermatologists.

What emerging technologies are improving mole assessment and removal?

• AI-powered imaging for preliminary screenings
• Advanced dermoscopy techniques for detailed mole analysis
• Non-invasive biopsy alternatives for suspect lesions
• Precision laser treatments for minimal scarring
• Immunotherapy advancements for treating advanced skin cancers

In conclusion, while the allure of DIY solutions may be strong, the risks associated with at-home mole removal far outweigh any potential benefits. The expertise of board-certified dermatologists remains crucial in ensuring proper diagnosis, safe removal, and effective treatment of skin lesions. As we move forward, the integration of advanced technologies with professional dermatological care promises to enhance our ability to detect and treat skin cancers early, ultimately saving lives.

DIY Don’ts: Why At-Home Mole Removal Is a Bad Idea

Photo: Getty Images

Various devices claim to let you remove moles, skin tags and other lesions at home — here’s why you should think twice before tackling this procedure without a doctor.

As the world continues to grapple with COVID-19, it’s likely you’ve taken part in an “at-home” version of something. Home workouts, cooking meals you’d usually have in a restaurant and virtual hangouts are now the norm. While these lifestyle changes might be inconvenient, most of them generally won’t cause you harm (bad DIY haircuts notwithstanding). Some things are better left to the professionals, however, including the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.

At-home mole removal devices may be a tempting purchase for people attempting to take skin concerns into their own hands. But products that promise to burn, freeze or use lasers to remove moles or skin tags come with plenty of potentially harmful side effects and unintended consequences. According to Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation, they simply aren’t worth the risk.

“This isn’t like giving yourself a haircut,” she says. “There are very serious risks associated with trying to remove a mole yourself, whether it’s with a tool called a mole removal pen, plasma corrector pen or something found around the house. I’ve had people tell me they’ve tried to remove moles with everything from duct tape to scissors.”

The main problem associated with removing something from your skin on your own is that there’s no way for you to tell if you’re removing a benign lesion — or a malignant one. Dr Sarnoff says that dermatologists spend years training to recognize suspicious lesions, and even after identifying one, they perform a biopsy to determine exactly what the specimen is before deciding how to move forward.

“This isn’t like giving yourself a haircut,” Dr. Sarnoff says. “There are very serious risks associated with trying to remove a mole yourself. ”

“You may chop off a mole you don’t like, thinking you’re saving money by not going to the doctor, but you might actually be chopping off a melanoma,” says Dr. Sarnoff.

Melanoma is a dangerous form of skin cancer that can rapidly spread to other organs if not caught at an early stage. Dr. Sarnoff explains that if you cut off a primary melanoma yourself, melanoma cells can remain in the skin and spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body — all without your knowledge. A board-certified dermatologist would perform a biopsy on the tissue to be sure of any diagnosis. If the mole were malignant, the patient would likely need further surgery to remove any remaining cancerous cells and make sure the cancer has not spread.

Another risk of at-home mole removal is infection. Dr. Sarnoff says people removing moles at home are unlikely to pay the same level of attention to sanitation of tools, prepping the skin and postoperative care as a dermatologist would. An infection will delay healing at the site and increase chances of scarring. Not to mention that the risk of scarring after an at-home removal is already high compared to when you have a lesion removed by a dermatologist. Dr. Sarnoff says at-home removals can result in chicken pox-like, indented scars or hypertrophic, bumpy ones. Either way, a high risk of scarring can be counterintuitive to the desire to remove a mole in the first place.

The final issue with at-home mole removal is the chance of ineffective partial removal. “Basically, the removal may not totally work, and you end up only cutting off the top of the mole,” Dr. Sarnoff explains. “This leaves some of the mole down in deeper layers of the skin, so you haven’t achieved the cosmetic look you want. And the fact that the mole has been tampered with can cause problems down the road if you ever want it removed properly.”

Dr. Sarnoff says “zapping” a mole with an at-home laser device can also cause changes to the cells that make them look problematic, even when they aren’t. The odd appearance of these cells could lead a pathologist to misdiagnose a benign mole as melanoma, meaning you would have to go through therapy for melanoma that you never needed.

Between the cosmetic risks, potential for incorrect removal and very real risk of not properly addressing a dangerous skin cancer, Dr. Sarnoff says trying to remove a mole at home is highly inadvisable.

“I would never recommend at-home mole or skin tag removal,” she says. “Call a dermatologist, and don’t take no for an answer if you’re concerned about something new, changing or unusual on your skin.”

Dr. Sarnoff notes that during the COVID-19 pandemic, doctor visits may be different, but you have options. You can ask to send photographs to your physician or make a teledermatology appointment to get an assessment. The important thing is getting your concerns taken care of by a professional so you can have peace of mind that they’ve been addressed thoroughly and safely.

What Happens, How It’s Done, and More

A dermatologist can remove a mole with procedures including freezing and excision. The method can vary depending on the size, location, and whether they suspect it is cancerous.

Moles are common skin growths. You probably have more than one on your face and body. Most people have 10 to 40 moles somewhere on their skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Most moles are harmless and nothing to worry about. Unless a mole is cancerous, you don’t need to have it removed unless it bothers you. But if you don’t like the way it affects your appearance, or if it’s getting irritated from rubbing against your clothes, removing the mole is still an option.

The best way to know if a mole is cancerous is to see a dermatologist for an annual skin cancer screening. If you have a history of skin cancer, your dermatologist may recommend screening more often.

Meanwhile, you should schedule a checkup with your dermatologist if you notice any moles that:

• are asymmetrical
• have irregular borders
• are not uniform in color
• have a diameter that’s larger than a pencil eraser
• are evolving or changing in size, shape, or color

These are known as the ABCDEs of mole checks.

These types of moles should be evaluated by a dermatologist, who can then decide if they should be tested for skin cancer.

A dermatologist can typically remove a mole during a routine office visit. Sometimes a follow-up visit is necessary to complete a mole removal.

Two main types of surgical procedures are used for mole removal:

• Freezing. This procedure uses a small amount of liquid nitrogen to remove a noncancerous mole.
• Burning. This procedure uses an electric current to burn off the upper layers of a noncancerous mole. It may take more than one session to complete the mole removal.
• Shaving. This procedure involves using a surgical blade to shave the mole off the skin’s surface.
• Excision. This procedure goes deeper than shaving to excise the entire mole and stitch the skin back together. This type of removal is typically used if the mole is cancerous.

If necessary, your dermatologist can evaluate the mole that’s been removed for skin cancer.

A number of websites offer “do-it-yourself” tips for removing a mole at home. These methods are not proven to work, and some may be dangerous. You should talk with your doctor about your options before you try any home remedies for mole removal.

Some of these unproven methods include:

• burning the mole off with apple cider vinegar
• taping garlic to the mole to break it down from the inside
• applying iodine to the mole to kill the cells inside
• cutting off the mole with scissors or a razor blade

Other home remedies that claim to remove moles include applying:

• a mixture of baking soda and castor oil
• banana peel
• frankincense oil
• tea tree oil
• hydrogen peroxide
• aloe vera
• flaxseed oil

Pharmacies and online stores also sell mole removal creams. To use these creams, you first scrape off the top part of the mole. Then you rub the cream into the mole. The products claim that within a day after applying the cream, a scab will form. When the scab falls off, the mole will go with it.

That said, you should never remove a mole at home. Mole removal should be done by a medical professional like a dermatologist, who can send it to a lab to be evaluated for cancer.

Safer alternatives

A safer way to conceal moles if you’re self-conscious about them is to cover them with makeup. If you have a hair growing out of a mole, it’s safe for you to clip the hair or pluck it.

Home mole removal methods sound pretty easy and convenient. You might be tempted to try one of these techniques to avoid a visit to your dermatologist’s office. Yet there’s no evidence that home treatments for mole removal work, and some of them could be dangerous.

A few studies have reported on side effects from mole removal creams available at drugstores and online stores. These creams can cause thick scars to form in the area of the mole.

Removing moles by cutting them off with a sharp object like scissors or a razor blade carries risks, too. Cutting off any growth increases your risk of infection, especially if the tool you use is not properly sanitized. You can also create a permanent scar where the mole once was.

Another risk of removing a mole yourself is that you can’t tell if a mole is cancerous. A mole could be melanoma. If you don’t have a dermatologist test the mole and it is cancerous, it could spread throughout your body and become life threatening.

See a dermatologist if you want to remove a mole that bothers you. And definitely schedule a checkup if any moles have changed, which could be a sign of skin cancer. The doctor can do a biopsy, which is removing a small piece of the mole to test under a microscope to see if it’s cancerous.

If you have a mole that isn’t changing and doesn’t bother you, the best thing to do is to leave it alone. But if you don’t like the way the mole affects your appearance or if your clothes are irritating it, see a dermatologist to remove it safely.

Also be sure to see a dermatologist if the mole has changed color, size, or shape, or if it scabs over. These could be signs of skin cancer. Getting a potentially cancerous mole checked out and removed could prevent the cancer from spreading.

Dermatologist answers 25 questions about mole removal

Which moles can be removed and which ones should never be touched?

What is the safest and most painless way to remove a mole?

What is the best way to remove a neoplasm at home if you do not want to go to the doctor?

These and a little over 20 more questions are really heard by our dermatologists most often. I didn’t have to invent anything – the wording was taken directly from those letters that come to us by e-mail. And from conversations with the patients themselves.

The dermatologists of the Lasersvit clinic are always ready to answer them. After all, the better people understand all the benefits and risks of removing moles, the easier it is for them to protect their health.

If you have many moles, this does not automatically mean serious health problems. But you are at risk and you should visit a dermatologist more often. If you have few moles, then this, unfortunately, is also not a reason for joy – sometimes skin formations are in an uncomfortable place and interfere with normal walking or wearing your favorite clothes. In this case, the neoplasm will want to be removed as soon as possible.

But in order to decide on this procedure, you need to learn as much as possible about it.

We have prepared answers to 25 frequently asked questions and, most likely, among them there will be those that torment you too.

If you are not interested in general information, but you need recommendations for your specific case, then just call the Lasersweet clinic and make an appointment with our dermatologists. They will solve your problem.

1. Why do moles need to be removed?

The answer is not always obvious. Moles look quite harmless – they are just a few brown dots on the skin. Why get rid of them?

Yes, moles or nevi are benign skin lesions. They are safe. Most often it is.

But for a variety of reasons, for example, due to the large amount of solar radiation received during one’s life, due to solarium, genetics and other factors, moles can degenerate into malignant tumors. But melanoma is one of the fastest growing cancers.

Usually a person with this type of cancer does not live long.

The main thing here is to detect the disease in time and then at 9out of 10 cases, the prognosis is favorable.

The problem is that “good” moles are difficult to distinguish from skin cancer. Moreover, there are also many types of skin cancer – three main ones and a number of less common ones. That is, cancer can appear on the skin as a simple, painless spot or resemble inflammation, a rash. It may be pale, or it may be dark, red or purple. May be raised but smooth or form a reddish, scaly patch.

Are you sure you can figure this out on your own?

To protect yourself, you need to know which moles to remove. And only a doctor can understand this.

For patients, there are several signs of skin cancer to watch out for:

• Change from round to asymmetrical.
• Bleeding or enlargement.
• Shade change.
• Changes in skin texture, such as flaking.

Does any of these items apply to your mole? If yes, then run to the doctor!

However, the threat of skin cancer is not the most common reason for the removal of nevi in ​​our people.

Moles often appear on the neck, feet and in other “uncomfortable” places. Even if you just wear clothes or walk, you experience discomfort. To solve the problem, you need to make an appointment with a doctor and remove the annoying nevus.

The final reason for removing moles is cosmetic. Angelina Jolie and Marilyn Monroe have never had nevi on their faces, but not everyone is so lucky – some people seriously spoil their appearance. I want to get rid of this.

Some of the problems listed above may apply to you. If so, then contact a dermatologist and he will already determine which moles are best removed and how exactly to do it.

There are many people who are willing to perform a “mini-operation” on their own, at home. They find on the Internet special “recipes”, “folk remedies”, which supposedly should help with this.

Don’t do it.

Just stop for a few minutes and read what we are about to say.

2. Can I remove a mole myself?

We do not recommend this. There are several reasons for this.

Before removing a mole, you need to determine how dangerous it is. People without medical education will not be able to correctly diagnose, and the eye of a dermatologist with a 90% probability will determine whether the formation is benign or not. At the slightest doubt, the doctor additionally uses special equipment for diagnosis.

Another problem is the choice of removal method. There are many ways to remove nevi – from a scalpel to a laser. Only a dermatologist can determine which one is right for your situation. Tools for such operations are available only in medical centers.

The use of folk remedies to eliminate nevi is very dangerous. Especially if you haven’t consulted a doctor. Even with the removal of a benign formation, complications are possible – bleeding, infection. Often, scars appear at the site of the removed nevi. Often, self-medication leads to even greater problems than the skin neoplasms themselves.

Doctors, scientists do not know anything about the safety or effectiveness of home remedies for removing moles. No official research has been done on this. We don’t know about the potential side effects either.

Why risk your life?

Instead of looking on the Internet for ways to remove a mole yourself, contact the Lasersweet clinic. Our doctors will quickly and safely relieve you of nevi.

While you are thinking about our proposal, we will tell you which growths can be removed.

3. I heard that not all moles can be removed. Which ones can’t be deleted?

The answer to the question, “Which moles should not be removed?” The dermatologist will give you after examination. In fact, you can get rid of any nevus. But if there are no good reasons for the operation, then it is usually better not to disturb them. No need to be afraid that every mole will definitely turn into a malignant neoplasm – this is not at all the case.

We recommend getting rid of moles that are permanently damaged by rubbing against clothes or shoes.

Also, surgeries are often performed if the neoplasm has a bad effect on appearance.

Thus, with the consent of the doctor, you can make an appointment for the removal of almost any neoplasm.

Now consider how safe such procedures are.

4. Do you have any advice on how to safely remove a mole?

The mere thought of an operation causes terrible anxiety. Terrible images of severe pain and ugly scars on the face appear in my head.

Indeed, quite recently, a couple of centuries ago, all your worst fears were real. Yes, what can I say, the teeth were “treated” with huge forceps!

Now everything is different.

Modern methods allow you to remove a mole safely, quickly and without pain. For example, in our clinic, one neoplasm is removed by laser in just 2 minutes. It acts on the nevus with short pulses, so in most cases even local anesthesia is not needed. It is required only when removing large moles.

The treated area heals quickly. The laser prevents bleeding and disinfects the tissue.

To date, laser surgery is the most effective way to get rid of nevi.

If you decide to sign up for this procedure, read what time of the year is best to remove tumors.

5. In women’s magazines I came across an article that moles are not recommended to be removed in the summer. Can you tell me why?

This is a recommendation, not a ban. For the operation, you can choose any time when it is convenient for you. But doctors advise removing nevi in ​​autumn or winter. There is a reason for this.

Convenience.

After the operation, it is necessary to cover the treated skin area from the sun for two months. Otherwise, ultraviolet radiation will accelerate the production of melanin and increase pigmentation. As you can see, there’s nothing to worry about.

In some cases, the operation cannot be postponed, regardless of the season. For example, if a mole grows in size, bleeds or is damaged. When this happens, you should consult a dermatologist.

6. Give advice on which doctor to contact to remove a mole?

You need to make an appointment with a dermatologist. This doctor studies the functions, structure and diseases of the hair, skin, sweat and sebaceous glands. It treats a wide range of diseases, ranging from hives to psoriasis.

We invite you to contact the LaserSweet clinic. If you want to know which doctor removes moles without pain, we have a whole team of such specialists here. Leading dermatologists of the country work in the clinic. They have already examined over 100,000 patients and will be happy to help you too.

While you are thinking about our proposal, we will talk about the dangers of removing nevi.

7. Why is it dangerous to remove moles?

The main reason why it is dangerous to remove moles is that they can be malignant and without dermatoscopy you won’t even know it. And skin cancer quickly metastasizes. Such dangerous moles must be removed in a special way.

Consult qualified physicians. They will conduct an examination, study the tests and only then decide whether an operation is needed or not.

Even in many beauty salons, nevi are removed incorrectly. Don’t just think about saving. Think about your health, about your loved ones.

8. I have moles on my body. How can I remove them?

All people have moles. Their presence is not a reason for panic. Moreover, most of them almost certainly do not interfere with you. Thinking about whether to remove moles on the body is only in a few cases:

• If they are often damaged.
• If they degenerate into a malignant neoplasm.
• If they spoil your appearance.

You can easily get rid of any nevus, but for this you need to contact a dermatologist. He will study the neoplasms and choose the appropriate method for their removal. Now we will talk about what patients feel during the operation.

9. I heard that removing a mole is a painful and long procedure. Is it so? Can you recommend how to remove it quickly?

At some time in the past, patients may have had to endure intense pain to get rid of nevi. But now it is not necessary.

The use of a laser allows you to remove neoplasms in 2 minutes. The laser pulses are so short that even children do not cry from pain during the procedure. The area of ​​skin with a nevus is constantly cooled, which reduces discomfort. Or local anesthesia is used.

If you want to remove a mole quickly, make an appointment with a dermatologist at the LaserSweet clinic. He will examine your growths and check them with a dermatoscope for signs of degeneration.

Even when nevi are removed, they still need to be looked after. We will now describe how to do this.

10. Advise how to treat removed moles?

The procedure itself for removing a nevus is not yet a complete disposal of a neoplasm. It is important not only how professionally the procedure is carried out, but also the observance of the doctor’s instructions.

After using the laser, a crust forms on the treated area of ​​the skin. It usually disappears within a week. The operated site must be protected from any damage. It is not allowed to apply cosmetics or scratch the removed nevus.

How to treat removed moles?

The dermatologist will write you a list of disinfectants that you can use. Chlorhexidine is suitable for processing the crust.

If the doctor’s instructions are not followed, complications arise:

• Severe itching.
• Prolonged bleeding.
• Purulent discharge.
• Swelling of the skin.

These will require additional treatment. Save your time and nerves – strictly follow the instructions of the dermatologist after the operation.

11. Can large moles be removed?

Laser and other modern methods can remove both large and small moles. The only difference is the duration of the operation.

When working with large neoplasms, there are several important points:

• One small mole can be removed in 2 minutes. It takes more time to process a large neoplasm.
• Requires local anesthesia so that the patient does not feel pain, since the removal of the nevus takes more time.

Sometimes the mole reappears after surgery. Now we will tell you what to do in this case.

12. I had a mole removed, and then it grew. What to do?

This phenomenon is called nevus recurrence. It means that the neoplasm was not completely removed and its particles remained in the skin. Gradually they grew into a new mole. It is not dangerous to health, but it will require another operation to remove it.

For this reason, it is very important to seek the help of experienced doctors. They will operate on you so that the removed mole will not grow back.

There are currently 5 different methods used to remove nevi.

13. How can a mole be removed?

To properly remove a mole, you need to choose the right method for this. Therefore, doctors carefully examine problematic nevi to understand how best to remove them.

5 methods are used for this:

1. Laser treatment. A powerful light beam burns out the neoplasm cells. The skin is processed in layers, which prevents damage to healthy tissues. The procedure does not cause bleeding or pain.
2. Electrocoagulation. The mole is cut off with a surgical coagulator. It creates a high-frequency current that cuts the tissue and solders it. This method does not cause bleeding and infection of the wound.
3. Radio wave removal. For the treatment of nevi, a radioknife is used. It cuts tissue with high frequency radio waves. The procedure is contraindicated in people with a pacemaker, as well as in patients with herpes and in a feverish state.
4. Cryodestruction. This method is best suited for the treatment of neoplasms in the upper layers of the skin. A swab soaked in liquid nitrogen is applied to them. As a result, the body rejects the treated nevi. The procedure is not suitable for people with cold intolerance.
5. Surgical removal. This method effectively eliminates large and dangerous moles. They are cut off with a scalpel along with a small area of ​​healthy skin. This leaves a large scar that takes several weeks to heal. Wounds need to be looked after for a long time.

Now that you have learned how to remove tumors, we will talk about the consequences of such operations.

14. I’m afraid to remove a mole because I’m afraid of the consequences

You won’t have any problems if a qualified doctor removes your mole. But the consequences of the wrong operation can be very serious. Refrain from using the services of specialists from dubious beauty salons.

Not only the quality of the operation is important, but also accurate diagnosis. For example, in the Lasersvit clinic, when examining moles, a Delta 20 T dermatoscope is used. It allows you to detect skin cancer at an early stage.

If you decide to contact us, choose the right time to remove the growths. Now we will show you how to do it.

15. Tell me, at what time of the year is it better to remove a mole?

If you do not need to urgently remove a nevus, then the best time of the year for the operation is autumn and winter. There are few sunny days during this period. Therefore, it is easier for you to follow the doctor’s instructions for protecting the operated area of ​​skin from the sun.

However, you can also choose another time to have your moles removed. If you want to get rid of them as quickly as possible, you can do it even in summer. But remember that for the successful elimination of nevi, it is important not only to find a good doctor, but also to follow his instructions.

16. I am in my second trimester. Can moles be removed during pregnancy?

There is no definite answer to this question. It all depends on your specific situation. Contact your gynecologist and then consult a dermatologist. They will examine the nevi that are bothering you and determine if the mole can be removed during pregnancy.

We recommend that you visit a dermatologist if:

• The flat neoplasm is swollen.
• Nevus enlarged and changed color.
• There was pain and burning in the area with a mole.

If you do not have these signs, then everything is in order. Pregnant women have a lot of nevi due to hormonal imbalance. It’s quite normal.

If you want to remove the neoplasm for aesthetic reasons, it is better to wait until the baby is born. Don’t put too much stress on him or yourself.

17. How can I check and remove a mole myself?

Now let’s talk about checking and removing moles. You can still check it yourself, but deletion – in no case. If you do not have a medical education and suitable equipment, then the result of mole removal will be disappointing. It is highly likely that your inept actions will only lead to a worsening of the situation.

However, this does not mean that only a dermatologist should deal with your moles. There are 5 signs of nevus degeneration that you need to remember:

1. Asymmetric halves.
2. Rough edges.
3. Color change.
4. Size increase.
5. External changes – cracks, peeling, bleeding.

Check your growths periodically. If you notice one of the signs described, contact a dermatologist. He will examine the nevi and determine if they need to be removed.

18. I have a raised mole on my face – can it be removed?

Yes, but only after seeing a doctor. A dermatologist will check your growth and select the best method for removing it. He will also determine whether it is necessary to conduct a histological examination – the study of mole cells.

You can remove a convex mole on the face by any of the available methods: laser, coagulator or scalpel.

19. Is it necessary to do histology of removed moles?

Histology of the removed mole is carried out at the request of the patient. However, we strongly recommend that this study be performed if the doctor suspects the degeneration of a nevus.

Histology is now the most accurate method for diagnosing malignant neoplasms. Based on its results, you will know for sure whether you have skin cancer or not.

20. Advise how and how to remove a mole on the face without a scar?

Almost any modern method is suitable for this. For example, using a laser, you can remove a mole on your face without a scar in a matter of minutes.

You don’t have to worry that after the operation you have to wait a long time until the treated area of ​​the skin heals. The laser beam affects only neoplasm cells and does not affect healthy tissues. After the procedure, cell renewal begins – a hard crust from the skin surface disappears in a few weeks. Follow all the instructions of the dermatologist, and you will get rid of the nevus forever. At the same time, scars and scars will not remain on the skin.

Now we will tell you which moles can be removed with a laser.

21. Can all moles be removed with a laser?

Unlike other methods, laser surgery has no contraindications and is suitable for removing any nevi. But it is possible only after examining the mole – the doctor must give permission for removal.

Laser moles can be removed even during pregnancy. Although in this case, we recommend that the operation is carried out only when absolutely necessary.

Doctors use a laser to remove both small and large neoplasms. The only difference is the duration of the procedure.

In the clinic “Lazersvit” one small mole is removed sometimes even in a minute. The laser can treat many nevi at once. In this case, the operation will continue for 30-40 minutes.

22. My child is 10 years old. On his body, I found a mole that frightens me. Can it be removed?

Your caution is respected! It’s great that you look after the child’s moles – it can save his life. The main thing here is not to worry. Until you know whether a mole in a child is really dangerous. Take him to see a dermatologist. The doctor will check the nevus that is bothering you and make a diagnosis.

If you want to know how old moles can be removed, then know that there are no age restrictions. However, this does not mean that any neoplasm in a baby must be removed.

We recommend that surgery be performed only if there is an urgent need. For example, a baby has grown giant nevi, more than 20 cm in diameter. They are very dangerous. With a probability of 30%, these moles will degenerate into a malignant neoplasm. For small nevi, the decision should be made by a dermatologist.

Don’t try to guess the diagnosis. Only after an examination by a doctor will it become clear whether it is possible to remove a mole from a child. Don’t put off solving your problem until tomorrow – make an appointment with a dermatologist today.

23. I’ve heard that there are many ways to remove moles – advise what is the best way to remove a mole on the face?

It is impossible to say unequivocally that some way is the best. Each of them has its own characteristics. But if we talk about the most universal, then this is the use of a laser.

There are no contraindications for laser removal of nevi and this method is suitable for treating neoplasms on different parts of the body. The procedure is fast, painless, with a short period of skin healing.

Remember that even the most perfect removal method will be useless if you do not follow the doctor’s instructions and do not take care of the treated skin area. Although you have learned the best way to remove moles, successfully getting rid of them depends largely on you.

24. I found red moles on my body. How can they be removed?

To remove red moles or scientific angiomas, the same methods are used as for the removal of ordinary nevi. Only here before deleting you need to understand whether there is a need for this.

Angioma is a benign vascular formation. It is not dangerous to health and occurs due to disruption of the gastrointestinal tract or hormonal imbalance.

Doctors advise you not to touch angiomas until they bother you. But if they appeared in an inconvenient place or grow quickly, then red moles on the body can be removed.

Any of the modern methods is suitable for this:

• Cryogenic surgery.
• Laser destruction.
• Infrared coagulation.
• X-ray therapy.

Do not think about how to remove red moles immediately after they appear. Make a decision about the operation only after examination by a doctor.

Next, we will tell you why you don’t have to worry about pain during surgery.

Consequences of mole removal – Lasersweet

Moles, also known as nevi and neoplasms.

Every person has them. Sometimes just a few pieces, and sometimes more than fifty.

Moles grow to varying sizes – some up to 30 millimeters in diameter. Moreover, neoplasms appear both in places covered by clothing, and on the face, neck and hands.

Therefore, sometimes people want to get rid of nevi.

An unsightly mole in the wrong place often becomes a real cosmetic disaster. It can be easily removed with a simple procedure.

Removal of moles has not only positive consequences, but we will talk about this in detail later.

For now, let’s discuss other reasons for the operation.

People remove tumors because of their appearance. But procedures are often performed for more serious reasons – damage or degeneration of moles.

For example, a nevus has grown on the lower back and constantly rubs against clothes. The skin on it is damaged. Possible infection.

In such a situation, an operation is necessary. Although you first need to consult a dermatologist and undergo an examination to make sure that the mole is safe.

Indeed, sometimes neoplasms only look harmless. In rare cases, nevi degenerate into malignant formations that not only grow and penetrate into neighboring tissues, but also metastasize to distant organs. That is, the work of the whole organism is disrupted.

Skin cancer is often fatal. This does not mean that every neoplasm should be viewed as a terrorist with a bomb on his belt. Almost all moles are harmless.

Not all skin cancers are equally dangerous. Most often, slow-growing cancerous formations, basaliomas and spinaliomas, are born on the protective shell of the body. They rarely spread from their point of origin. Of course, even such malignant neoplasms threaten health, but their development takes many years.

Another thing is fast-growing skin cancer or melanoma. Such an education is fatal for many people, because it rapidly increases in size and metastasizes.

Speed ​​is essential to defeating this enemy. That is the timely detection of melanoma.

Therefore, we recommend that you visit a dermatologist at least once a year, and if there are more than 50 neoplasms on the body, then twice a year.

Consultation with a doctor is also required before surgery. In particular, the doctor will talk about the possible consequences of removing moles.

The results of such procedures are described in detail by former patients, whose experience will help you assess the likely complications.

Reviews about the consequences of mole removal

We all want the treatment to go without complications and neoplasms on the skin just disappear. Unfortunately, this is not always possible.

Sometimes patients do not get the ideal result. For a variety of reasons. Sometimes doctors are to blame for the negative consequences, and in other cases, mistakes are made by people who poorly care for the removed nevi.

It is also important to take into account the individual characteristics of patients. Sometimes the site of the neoplasm simply heals longer than usual. It happens.

Patients leave feedback about the consequences of mole removal:

• Lisa

Even in my youth, I had several large nevi, which greatly interfered with my life. One on the right side of the face. Another under the arm.

For a long time I thought about how to get rid of them. Finally found a suitable clinic and signed up for surgery.

The doctors didn’t remove the moles very quickly, but that’s okay because I had big nevi. But it doesn’t hurt at all.

Then they explained to me how to take care of my skin after the operation. Nothing complicated. I just didn’t touch the wounds and regularly wiped them with a special solution.

Young skin has grown in two months. A little longer than the doctors said. But I’m so satisfied.

• Light

I lived for many years with a mole on my right cheek. There were no problems with her. Then I discovered that the nevus grew a little. It was almost imperceptible, but every year it became more and more. And more convex. In the end, I went to the doctor and decided to have surgery.

The procedure was quick. But she took care of the wound for quite a long time – more than four weeks. At first it was red, and then gradually the inflammation went away.

Now, six months later, there are no traces of the mole left.

• Maria

I have had a large nevus on my neck since my youth and it has always irritated me. It just caught my eye. When I learned about laser removal of neoplasms, I immediately decided to get rid of the mole.

Satisfied with the result. The procedure itself is not to be feared. Doctors removed the nevus quickly, but it took a long time to take care of the wound. She waited six weeks for young skin to grow and the crust to fall off the wound.

• Elena

I had several small moles on my face. They don’t seem to interfere, but they don’t look very nice either. Decided to remove them.

Doctors at the clinic explained how to care for the skin after surgery. Moles were removed in a few minutes. In their place, reddened skin remained, which became covered with a thin crust. I had to wait for healing

• Nastya

After several trips to the solarium, many moles have grown on the skin. Urgently went to the doctor. He did not find signs of degeneration, but suggested removing a few neoplasms if they interfered. When one of the new moles started to touch my clothes, I decided to remove it.

The doctor removed the neoplasm in two minutes. The wound healed for a month and a half. Now the skin looks better.

• Alexey

I had several nevi that often caught on clothes and got damaged. This made me very angry. And I was afraid of infection of the wounds. In general, I decided to remove moles with a laser, because my acquaintances praised this operation very much.

No questions about the procedure. Doctors removed tumors quickly, and it was not painful at all. True, the wounds healed for two months, although the doctors promised a faster recovery.

Basically, I’m satisfied. So I recommend removing interfering or dangerous moles with a laser.

• Anya

For a long time I did not dare to remove the nevus under the nose. It was scary to go to the operation. I read a lot of reviews about laser therapy for moles, talked with doctors and still agreed to the treatment.

I hardly felt how the doctors were removing the tumor. A couple of minutes and it’s done. Now there is a small scar in place of the mole. Doctors explained that this happens in rare cases when the nevus has penetrated deep into the skin.

Other than that, I’m happy with the result.

• Marina

There were several problematic moles on my neck, which I was always afraid of damaging because I wear a chain. I read a lot of reviews about the removal of nevi with a laser. I spoke with doctors. Finally decided to have surgery.

I thought the procedure would be painful, but I felt almost nothing. The skin after treatment looked very ugly – red and inflamed. Then a crust grew on the wound. A month later, the skin completely healed, but then a pigmented spot appeared on it. Another operation is needed to remove it.

As you can see, most often after treatment, people complain about the long healing of the skin and the appearance of scars.

Fortunately, these complications are rare. Mostly reviews about the consequences of removing moles are positive.

Now let’s focus on the problems in the treatment of nevi on the face.

Consequences of removal of moles on the face

Most people remove nevi on the head for cosmetic reasons.

Some neoplasms are invisible. But it is difficult to look away from others, and therefore these moles seriously spoil the life of their carrier.

The operation helps to remove them. It is not difficult to remove nevi, but it is more difficult to avoid complications.

Main consequences of removal of moles on the face:

• Incomplete removal of nevi
• Wound infection
• Scarring

Each problem is easily solved. To effectively eliminate moles, it is important to choose the right method. Therefore, before the operation, be sure to consult an experienced dermatologist who will examine the neoplasm and suggest the best treatment option.

Infection will not be an issue with good wound care. Just follow the doctor’s orders.

Scars often appear due to the characteristics of the body and it is impossible to completely protect yourself from them. But the qualification of the doctor is also important. Make an appointment with a dermatologist with many years of experience in removing tumors.

It is also important to consider the characteristics of the different therapies.

Consequences of laser removal of moles

In general, this method of removing nevi is considered reliable and safe. However, not 100%.

The main disadvantage of laser therapy is the risk of incomplete elimination of neoplasms, when some of the cells remain in the skin and the mole grows back. This is especially unpleasant if the nevus is recognized as dangerous and has signs of degeneration into a malignant formation.

Solving the problem is simple.

To deal with such neoplasms, contact only experienced doctors. Surgery at a cheap beauty parlor can leave you with a nasty surprise on your skin and require additional therapy.

In a reliable clinic, you can easily avoid such consequences of laser mole removal.

Yes, the cost of the procedure is higher here.

But then you don’t have to come for a second session to eliminate one neoplasm.

Another problem can arise when a doctor cuts off nevi with a scalpel.

Consequences of surgical removal of a mole

For a long time, this method remained the main method of eliminating annoying, uncomfortable and dangerous neoplasms. Even now, many people use it.

Surgically, the doctor removes the mole and a small layer of skin around it. So then the wound remains. Then a scar appears.