How to Remove Moles

Hate that irritating mole on your face? Wish that mole on your neck wasn’t there because it reduces your self-confidence? Concerned that a mole on your back may be cancerous?

All three scenarios above are different but all relate to the same common irritability – moles. Moles are generally harmless and rather common (anywhere from 20-40 moles on a typical human body), but some do desire to have them removed. Other individuals are forced to remove them because of cancerous implications.

Whatever the reason, mole removal is a rather straightforward and easy process although there are some risks and side effects associated with the procedure. Scars are a major dilemma that could become as noticeable as or bigger than the actual mole that once rested there. Infection is another serious risk.

When an individual is considering whether or not he or she wants to remove a mole or is concerned that a mole may be cancerous, the first step is to consult a trustworthy doctor or dermatologist. While most doctors can successfully analyze the mole, if you are really concerned you should consult a dermatologist. Dermatologists specialize in skin care so they understand moles better than anyone.

Set up an appointment. The qualified physician will look at the mole and decide whether or not it’s cancerous (if that’s your question of concern) or can help you make the right choice about a mole that is not cancerous but undesirable.

Cancerous moles include one, some, or all of these qualities. An inconsistent shape or color, sudden changes in size or color, is painful or itchy, bleeds erratically, and is larger than an eraser on a pencil.

There are a variety of removal options at your fingertips. However, when you decide to remove the mole (either by choice or through necessity) the dermatologist may automatically eliminate several if not all but one choice. This is not because the doctor hates you. Instead, it’s because the doctor understands moles better than you and knows which option is best for you.

Many individuals prefer laser removal because it’s rather pain free and the chance of leaving scarring is much lower. However, the procedure is also very expensive (around $400) and is only available on moles that are not very deep in the layers of the skin.

Most individuals will have the mole removed either through an incision or the mole will be burned. Both of these types of procedures are more painful and leave a higher likelihood of scarring. In fact, it’s almost guaranteed that some type of scar will form. However the operation is much cheaper.

However the most risk free, painless, and least expensive method is through a natural removal. This is a viable option if you are patient. Obviously it’s not an option if the mole is cancerous and should be removed immediately.

Here’s a quick rundown once again on all the types of procedures available. Keep in mind all of these may not be available for your particular situation.

Natural Removal

  • Involves tedious scratching of the surface of the mole.
  • Once mole is opened, castor oil with baking soda is applied to the mole.
  • Process repeated multiple times per day.
  • Not an overnight process. Can take weeks to remove.

Incision with Stitches

  • Cutting around area remove moles.
  • Stitches are placed either deep in the skin (and are never taken out) or placed level on the skin (and are eventually removed).

Incision with Cauterization

  • The mole is burned and removed.
  • Stitches are not needed.

Removal via Laser

  • Laser light removes mole
  • Relevant depending on how deep the mole is.

Mole removal is associated with a few risks including scarring (quite common), infection of the wound, allergy to the anesthetic used in the procedure, and/or nerve damage.

Contact your local physician for more information and their opinion on mole removal.