Mole Removal
Moles
Moles are small coloured spots on the skin made up of cells called melanocytes, which produce the colour (pigment) in your skin.
The scientific name for moles is melanocytic naevi.
Moles are often a brownish colour, although some may be darker or skin-coloured. They can be flat or raised, smooth or rough, and some have hair growing from them. Moles are usually circular or oval with a smooth edge.
Prior to mole removal patents must-
See their Doctor to have the mole checked.
The Doctor must agree that it is safe to remove the mole.
The Doctor must document this in your notes.
Types of moles
There are many different types of moles, the most common are:
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junctional melanocytic naevi – these are usually brown, round and flat
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dermal melanocytic naevi – these are usually raised, pale and sometimes hairy
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compound melanocytic naevi – these are usually raised above the skin, light brown and sometimes hairy
Rarer types of moles include:
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halo naevi – moles surrounded by a white ring where the skin has lost its colour
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dysplastic or atypical naevi (also known as Clark naevi) – unusual looking and slightly larger moles that can be a range of colours and either flat or bumpy
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blue naevi – dark blue moles
Most moles are completely harmless, however, they may be unsightly and affect your confidence. Moles can also be a nuisance, for example if they regularly catch on your clothing or you cut them while shaving. These moles can be removed safely with a process called cauterisation.
Mole removal
The mole can be removed by Cauterisation, (a small eclectrical current ). The mole is anethasised prior to the treatment for patient comfort.
The treatment itself takes aproxamately 30 minutes to complete. This method involves using a tool that is able to burn the mole without wounding. The mole itself evaporates and the wound is not left open as it normally would be with a cutting tool. The wound itself will heal but it might be sore and red for a while afterward. A scab will form which will fall off over the following week or so.