Should I Get Moles Removed?

Moles are very common–and it’s actually estimated that a person has, on average, between 10 to 40 moles by adulthood. And yes, while they are usually harmless, some may want to get a mole removed for medical, cosmetic, or practical reasons.

Understanding when and why mole removal might be necessary can help you make informed decisions about your skin health. Let’s explore the key factors to know if mole removal is the right choice for you.

When Should You Get a Mole Removed?

Can moles be removed? The answer is yes, and there are many reasons why people go under this procedure. Yet, knowing when to get a mole removed can protect your health and improve your comfort. Here are the main reasons people consider mole removal:

Preventative Measure

Moles that appear unusual or have the potential to become problematic over time are recommended to be removed. Taking them out early can help to reduce the risk of future complications and avoid any health concerns.

Suspected Skin Cancer

If a mole shows signs of being cancerous, such as changes in size, shape, or colour, removal becomes essential. Abnormal moles should always be evaluated promptly to rule out skin cancers.

Cosmetic Reasons

Some mole placements on the face or another visible area can affect confidence or aesthetic preferences; hence, some patients choose to have moles removed purely for cosmetic purposes. Modern techniques ensure safe and effective removal for improved appearance.

Location Concerns

Moles in inconvenient locations can interfere with daily life. For example, a mole near the waistline, under a bra strap, or on the scalp might get irritated by clothing or grooming, making removal a practical choice.

Discomfort or irritation

A mole that frequently rubs against clothing gets caught in jewellery or causes discomfort and may need removal. Addressing irritation not only improves comfort but also reduces the risk of infection or injury.

Mole Changing

Moles that change in appearance should always be checked. Look for changes in size, shape, border, colour, or texture. Any evolving mole may require removal and further investigation to ensure it’s not a sign of a serious condition.

How to Get a Mole Removed

There are several methods to remove a mole. To choose the right for you, your doctor will assess several factors, such as: 

• Size and depth of the mole
• Location on the body
• Whether the mole is suspected to be cancerous
• Skin type and potential for scarring

The most common procedures for getting a mole removed include:

Excision 

Surgical excision involves cutting out the mole and some surrounding tissue, and it’s done under local anesthesia. This method is often used for larger or deeper moles and ensures complete removal.

Cryotherapy 

The mole is frozen for removal using liquid nitrogen. This non-invasive method is effective for smaller moles but may require multiple treatments for complete removal.

Diathermy 

This technique uses high-frequency energy to burn off the mole. It’s suitable for small moles and is a quick, effective option with minimal recovery time.

Laser Removal

Laser removal uses concentrated light to break down mole tissue. It’s ideal for flat or pigmented moles and offers a non-invasive solution with minimal scarring.

Does Getting a Mole Removed Hurt?

Getting a mole removed typically does not hurt during the procedure itself. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and the most discomfort you may feel is a brief pinch from the numbing injection. 

After the procedure, mild soreness or irritation is common, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Following aftercare instructions, like keeping the area clean and avoiding strenuous activities, helps ensure a smooth recovery.

Can Remove a Mole Cause Cancer?

A common misconception is that mole removal can cause cancer. The truth is that removing a mole does not trigger cancer. However, there are risks to consider:

1. Misdiagnosis: Improper removal methods can alter mole cells, leading to potential misdiagnosis of Melanoma.
2. Incomplete Removal: Partially removed moles may regrow and appear suspicious, mimicking skin cancer.
3. Cancer Spread: Improper removal of a cancerous mole may spread cancer cells.
4. Masking Cancer: Removing a mole without medical evaluation can delay skin cancer diagnosis and treatment.
5. Infection and Scarring: Incorrect techniques can cause infection and scarring, complicating future detection.

Always seek professional skin check evaluation to minimise risks.

Mole Mapping: A Preventative Measure

If you are concerned about your moles, mole mapping is the perfect procedure for preventive care. This process involves the mapping of moles across your whole body by taking around 30 zoomed-out photos from different angles to document all the spots on your skin.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used by software that creates a detailed map of your skin, documenting each mole’s location, size, and characteristics of each mole, allowing you to detect any mole change and skin cancers earlier.

The images are stored securely within medical records and are used only for diagnosing, monitoring, and treating skin cancers.

Read more about Mole Mapping. 

Monitor Your Moles at Home

Another key aspects of prevention are self-checks. You can use the ABCDE rule to check your moles: 

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
• Border: The edges are irregular or blurred.
• Colour: The mole has multiple colours or an uneven tone.
• Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm.
• Evolving: The mole changes in size, shape, or colour over time.

If you notice any of these signs, consult a professional immediately.

Consulting a Skin Specialist: When is it Necessary?

By rule, skin checks for everyone should be done annually; however, we recommend 6 to 12 months if you have risk factors such as:

• A family history of skin cancer.
• Prolonged sun exposure.
• Fair skin or a history of sunburns.
• Advancing age.
• A weakened immune system.

Early consultation with a skin specialist can lead to prompt treatment and better outcomes.

Conclusion: Is Mole Removal Right for You?

Deciding whether to get a mole removed or not will depend on different factors like appearance, location, and impact on your life. Ultimately, the best recommendation is to do what’s best for your well-being and seek professional advice to ensure your skin remains healthy and free from potential risks.

If you’re considering getting mole removal, Manningham Skin Cancer can assist you. Please book an appointment with one of the tenant skin specialists in Melbourne today!