Mole Removal Surgery

While many moles are removed for cosmetic reasons, surgery remains the most effective method for moles that are raised, deep-rooted, or require a medical biopsy (histology). At our clinic, we use precision surgical techniques combined with advanced laser technology to ensure the most discreet results possible.

Surgical Methods

Shave vs. Ellipse Excision

During your consultation, our specialist will determine the best method based on the mole’s size, depth, and location.

1. Shave Excision

The commonest way to remove moles that protrude from the skin is by a shave excision. Using a dermablade, this method is ideal for raised moles that sit above the skin's surface.

• The Procedure:
  After the area is numbed with a local anaesthetic, a specialided dermablade is used to remove the mole flush with the surrounding skin. This leaves a small superficial wound which is then cauterised with a laser to stop any bleeding and tidy the wound.
• No Stitches:
  Because the removal is superficial, no stitches are required. The area heals naturally like a small graze.
• The Result:
  A flat, subtle mark that eventually blends with your natural skin tone.

2. Ellipse (Surgical) Excision

An elliptical excision . It is a deep excision that removes the mole completely.  The resulting wound requires stitches which can be either dissolvable or non dissolvable depending on the site of removal.

This is used for flat moles, or deep-rooted lesions where the cosmetic result is likely to be better than a shave excision. Ellipse excision may also be chosen for any mole that is suspicious and requires a full-depth investigation.

• The Procedure:
  The entire mole and its "root" are removed using a small, oval-shaped (ellipse) incision. A cautery laser is then used to stop any bleeding.
• Stitches Required:
  The wound is closed with fine, precision stitches to ensure the skin heals in a neat, thin line.
• The Result:
  This method offers the lowest chance of regrowth and provides the best sample for laboratory testing (histology).

The "Laser Finish" for Superior Results

We often integrate laser technology into our surgical procedures to achieve a superior cosmetic finish:

• Feathering:
  After a Shave Excision, we use a laser to smooth and "feather" the edges of the wound. This prevents any visible "divot" and ensures the texture matches the surrounding skin.
• Cauterisation:
  The laser instantly seals blood vessels during the procedure. This minimizes bleeding and bruising, leading to a faster and cleaner healing process.
• Refining:
  In follow-up sessions, lasers can be used to further reduce redness or improve the texture of a surgical scar.

Laser Mole Removal

Non-Surgical Alternative?

Not every mole requires surgery. For small, flat, and non-suspicious moles, laser treatment may be a faster, non-invasive option.

View our Laser Mole Removal page to see if you are a candidate.

Step by Step Mole Removal Results

Shave excision (Dermablade) with radiolaser finishing

Frequently Asked Questions