Mole (Nevus) Removal Procedure

Moles (nevi) are pigmented growths on the skin that are congenital or develop later. They may need to be removed for aesthetic reasons or due to medical suspicion. With advancing techniques, many moles can now be removed in a clinical setting, in a short time and comfortably.

In Which Cases Should a Mole Be Removed?

• Aesthetic Concerns: Moles on the face, neck, or in a noticeable area may bother the person.
• Clothing Contact / Irritation: Moles in areas that constantly rub or are at risk of being cut while shaving can be removed.
• Change in Color, Shape, or Size: If the mole has darkened in color, has irregular borders, has grown rapidly, or causes itching or bleeding, it should be removed for diagnostic purposes.
• Medical Suspicion: If there are suspicious findings on dermatoscopic examination, it is recommended that the mole be removed and sent for pathological evaluation.

Who Is Suitable for This Procedure?

• Those with small to medium-sized moles
• Those with superficial or slightly raised moles
• People with aesthetic concerns who are aware of scarring
• Those whose mole’s shape or color has started to change
• Individuals who can follow post-procedure care instructions

Who May Not Be Suitable?

• Those with bleeding disorders or using blood thinners (pre-evaluation is required)
• The procedure cannot be performed on areas with active infection

• In some cases, the procedure may be postponed during pregnancy (especially if for cosmetic reasons)
• If there is suspicion of a malignant (cancerous) mole, a wider excision at an advanced center may be required

Note: Each mole has a different structure. The removal method also varies depending on the mole’s location, depth, and clinical evaluation. The patient’s individual situation is taken into account.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Duration: Usually 10–20 minutes
Setting: Sterile clinical conditions
Anesthesia: Performed with local anesthesia; no pain is felt

Methods Used

1. Excision (Surgical Method):

The mole is completely cut out along with the skin. Stitches are usually required.
Advantage: Since all tissue is removed, it can be sent for pathology.
A scar may remain, but it is usually thin and linear.

2. Shave Excision (Superficial Removal):

The mole is shaved off from the surface. No stitches are needed.
Advantage: Scarring is minimal.
There may be recurrence in deep moles.

3. Laser / Electrocautery / Plasma Energy (Suitable Cases):

It can be applied only in selected, superficial, and benign moles. Scarring is generally minimal.

The method of mole removal is determined by the doctor according to the type and location of the mole.

Healing Process:

• There may be a slight scar in the first weeks; it fades over time.
• In superficial removals, the scar is generally minimal.

If Pathology Is Needed:

• If the mole has suspicious features, the removed tissue is sent for pathological evaluation.
• The result is usually available within 1–2 weeks.

Conclusion

Mole removal procedures are minimally invasive applications today that take aesthetic concerns into account and can generally be performed in a clinical setting. They can be safely preferred both to improve your appearance and to eliminate possible risks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mole (Nevus) Removal Procedure

1) Will there be a scar?
Depending on the type of procedure, the location of the mole, and the person’s skin type, a scar may remain, but it is generally not aesthetically disturbing. This risk is reduced with scar cream and sunscreen.

2) Is it a painful procedure?
No. After local anesthesia, no pain is felt. There may be mild soreness afterward.

3) Can my mole grow back?
In moles removed with a superficial method, it can rarely grow back. In surgical excision, this risk is very low.

4) Is examination necessary?
If there is a suspicious appearance, it is definitely sent for pathology. In benign moles removed for aesthetic purposes, pathological examination can also be performed depending on the patient’s request.