Mole Removal
TIME FRAME
30 Minutes
ANAESTHETIC METHOD
None
STITCH REMOVAL
Sometimes Required
OVERNIGHT STAY
No
BACK TO WORK
Next Day
BACK TO FITNESS
Next Day
PRICE: CUSTOM APPROACH
Schedule a consultation to get your exact cost for mole removal.
What is Mole Removal?
What is Mole Removal?First, a mole is a group of raised skin cells, usually black, brown, or sandy colour that can appear anywhere on a patient’s body. Generally, moles are harmless, but sometimes are a sign of melanoma. If you have a mole that concerns you, please consult your doctor for a checkup.
Mole removal is very simple. Dr. Bray can usually remove a mole in a single visit. He uses one of two procedures: a shave or a surgical excision.
Shave excisions involve Dr. Bray using a razor-like tool to carefully slice away the mole. This device has a tiny electrode at the end and operates using electrosurgical feathering. Feathering helps minimize the look of the removal by merging the edges of the incision with the surrounding skin. A shave excision does not require stitches. Even if the mole is checked for cancer prior to the procedure, Dr. Bray still examines the skin for signs of cancer once removed.
Surgical excisions are closer to surgery. Dr. Bray removes the mole down to the subcutaneous fat layer, then stitches the incision. Although both procedures remove the mole, a surgical excision is more effective in ensuring the mole does not return. To avoid the chance of recurring moles, wear sunscreen and limit direct sunlight exposure.
What You Should Know About Mole Removal
What are some risks of mole removal?
Risks of mole removal can vary from infection to adverse anaesthetic reaction to nerve damage. The latter two are rare, and Dr. Bray’s chief concern is always his patients’ safety. Although there may be a scar, Dr. Bray works to ensure it is as minimal as possible. By following his post-operative care instructions, patients can greatly improve the healing process and visibility of the scar.
Is mole removal painful?
Dr. Bray uses local anaesthesia when performing mole removals. As such, the patient feels no pain.
Do you need to prepare for mole removal?
No preparation is required for a mole removal; however, if symptoms that may be related to the mole occur, inform Dr. Bray. Prior to removal, he will clean the area and apply a sterile drape to reduce the risk of infection.
Can a mole grow back after removal?
A mole in the exact same area is very unlikely to return on its own. After the procedure, Dr. Bray examines the tissue in the lab to ensure the entire mole has been removed. If the mole’s surrounding cells are not removed, recurrence is possible. Therefore, Dr. Bray is exceptionally careful in ensuring no cells are left behind. It is important to note that patients should always apply sunscreen and limit sunlight exposure.
COVID-19 testing
In line with COVID-19 regulations, we have reassessed our cleaning and sterilization protocols. Upon arrival in our office we conduct symptom screenings with a questionnaire and check our patients’ temperature. We also require mask wearing for our staff and patients. COVID-19 testing before surgical procedures is mandatory in order to protect our staff. Please inform yourself regarding testing centers in your area and arrange for testing prior to your surgery.
Blood work
We require a number of lab tests, diagnostic tests and medical evaluations leading up to your surgery. The nature of these tests will vary according to the procedure, your age, health, history, and other key health factors. Make sure to run all the necessary blood work and receive clearance before any surgical procedure. Necessary testing may change based on procedure, age, health, history and other factors.
Two weeks before surgery
It’s of utmost importance to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions regarding diet, supplements and medications. Stop drinking alcohol and smoking of any kind. Avoid exposure to sick people and quit taking blood thinning medications, such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen and a number of supplements. Post-surgery preparations should be made, such as arranging transportation, getting time off from work, stocking up on food and anything else you will need post-surgery and making sure someone will stay with you during the first two days after the procedure.
Day before surgery
Figure out what you are going to wear, follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding pre-surgery fasting and any other preparation measures. Go to bed early and get well rested before your big day. We also recommend getting your house in order and buying ice packs to help with swelling after the surgery.
What to Expect After Mole Removal
Dr. Bray will provide instructions for post-operative care. These instructions concern caring for the incision to prevent infection, minimize scarring, and reduce healing time.
Healing time will depend on the individual, the procedure, and the commitment to Dr. Bray’s post-operative instructions. Larger incisions will take longer to heal, but most incisions require 2-3 weeks of healing.
Complications from Mole Removal
Risks and complications of mole removal include, but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Excessive scarring
RECOMMENDED SURGERIES WITH MOLE REMOVAL
*INDIVIDUAL RESULTS MAY VARY
Contact Dr.Bray
Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Bray by submitting the form below or calling his offices directly at 416-323-1330.
