what happens after surgery?

• What are moles?
• Who should have moles removed?
• How is the mole removed?
• What happens to the mole after removal?
• Will I have a scar?
• What are the risks?
• What happens after surgery?
• What aftercare is provided?

Mole or cyst removal is relatively simple and in most cases you can return to normal activities the same day.

For shave excisions we normally advise the following aftercare:

• If you have a dressing you will be told when it can be removed;
• Vaseline is normally then applied to keep the wound moist for 1 to 2 weeks until healed;
• The wound will be red for 2 to 3 weeks, which gradually settles over the next few months;
• Massaging with oils or moisturising/silicon (dermatix) creams is advisable after 2 to 3 weeks to help reduce any scarring;
• If there is any increasing pain or redness, consult your doctor.

For elliptical excisions we normally advise the following aftercare:

• Keep the wound dry for 2 days;
• Dressings can be left for up to a week;
• You will be informed as to whether your stitches are dissolvable or need to be removed;
• Over 1 to 2 weeks, in areas where the skin is under tension such as the back and legs, it is advisable to reduce exercises which would possibly stretch the wound;
• Steri-strips can be applied over the wound for up to 3 weeks to help the wound heal;
• After 3 weeks the wound can be massaged with oils or moisturising creams;
• If there is any increasing pain or redness consult your doctor as it could be a sign of infection.