Different Methods of Mole Removal You Could Consider

Moles refer to skin growths that typically have a black or brownish appearance. They occur when the cells in your skin that contain melanin begin to develop clusters rather than spreading out in your skin. Generally, most moles tend to be benign, and people want them removed simply for aesthetics. However, some moles can be cancerous, and these have to be eliminated as soon as possible. This is why it is prudent to always have a dermatologist examine your mole to determine whether it is malignant or benign. If you are considering mole removal, here are some of the different methods that your dermatologist may use.

Mole removal through an excision

An excision refers to the process of your dermatologist surgically slicing the mole off your skin. During this procedure, the dermatologist will sterilise the area and apply a local anaesthetic. Once your skin is numb, a scalpel is used to cut out the mole as well as some surrounding skin just in case the cells had begun to spread. When the procedure is complete, the dermatologist will discern whether or not you require stitches, depending on how big or small the mole was.

Mole removal using laser therapy

Laser mole removal is a great alternative for individual who would prefer a less intrusive method. As the name suggests, the dermatologist will use laser beams, which present in the form of bright light, to burn off the mole from your skin. This type of mole removal does not need any stitches once complete. In addition to this, it also has a lower risk of developing any scarring. As such, laser mole removal is ideal for moles located at conspicuous places such as your face.

Mole removal using cauterization

With this type of mole removal, the dermatologist will be burning your mole. However, unlike with laser therapy, the burning is done using electricity. The electricity creates pulsing heat in the equipment. This heat is directly applied onto the mole to kill of the clustered skin cells. Cauterization is ideal for flat moles, which may prove hard to slice off.

Mole removal using cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a relatively new way to eliminate moles. With this procedure, the dermatologist will use liquid nitrogen directly on the mole. The freezing temperatures of the liquid nitrogen kill the cells of the mole. Once they die, a scab will form over the mole area. Since a scab forms, there is no need for stitches after the procedure. After a few weeks, the scab falls off on its own. It should be noted, though, that this method of mole removal has high chances of causing a scar. Therefore, it is better suited to inconspicuous areas.


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