Mole removal is a short procedure done under local anaesthetic, usually in a GP’s or dermatologist’s consulting room. The doctor numbs the skin, removes the mole by cutting it out (an excision) or shaving it off, and in most cases sends it to a pathology lab to be checked under a microscope. You go home the same day with a dressing, and sometimes stitches.
Why would a mole need to come off?
Most moles are harmless and never need treatment. A doctor usually suggests removal when a spot looks unusual or has changed, because the only way to be certain whether it is cancerous is to examine it under a microscope.
healthdirect’s guide to moles advises seeing a doctor about a mole that grows, changes shape or colour, has several colours or shades, bleeds or itches, or is new and looks different or unusual. Some people also have a harmless mole removed because it catches on clothing or for appearance.
If you are unsure about a spot, start with a skin check. Our guide on how often you should get a skin check explains the timing.
Mole removal methods compared
The method depends on the size, depth and location of the spot, and on what the doctor suspects it might be.
| Method | What happens | Stitches | Sample sent for testing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excision | The mole is cut out with a margin of normal skin around it | Usually | Yes |
| Shave removal | The mole is shaved off level with the skin using a surgical blade | No | Usually |
| Punch removal | A small round tool removes a core of skin containing the spot | Sometimes | Yes |
| Freezing (cryotherapy) | Liquid nitrogen destroys the spot in place | No | No |
When a spot might be a skin cancer, healthdirect explains that the doctor will cut out some surrounding skin as well, so the edges can be tested. That margin is why an excision scar is longer than the spot itself. Freezing destroys the tissue rather than removing it, so it is generally used for spots such as sunspots rather than moles that need testing.
What happens on the day
A typical mole removal follows the same few steps:
- Consent and marking. The doctor explains the method, checks your medical history and medications, and may mark the area.
- Local anaesthetic. A small injection numbs the skin. This stings briefly, then you should feel pressure but not pain.
- Removal. The mole is cut, shaved or punched out.
- Closing the wound. An excision is closed with stitches. A shave wound is left to heal on its own under a dressing.
- Pathology. The tissue goes to a lab, and your doctor will tell you how and when you will get the result.
Let the practice know beforehand if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder or have reacted to a local anaesthetic before. Do not stop any medication without speaking to your doctor first.
How a mole removal wound heals
Healing depends on the method, the size of the wound and where it is on the body.
In the first few days the area may feel tight and tender. Keep the dressing on as instructed, keep the wound clean and dry, and use pain relief if needed. healthdirect advises contacting your doctor if you notice redness, swelling, worsening pain or discharge, which can be signs of infection.
If you have stitches, your doctor will tell you when they need to come out, because the timing varies by body area. Avoid heavy lifting or stretching that pulls on the wound until then. The practice’s wound care service can help with dressings and stitch removal.
Will it scar?
Any method that breaks the skin leaves some mark. An excision leaves a line scar that is longer than the mole because of the margin, while a shave removal leaves a smaller round mark. healthdirect notes that scarring or changes in skin colour can occur after a spot is removed. Ask your doctor how the method chosen is likely to affect the look of the area, especially on the face.
Never remove a mole at home
Cutting, burning or using creams to remove a mole yourself means the tissue cannot be tested, so a melanoma could be missed. A report in the Medical Journal of Australia describes how unlicensed “black salve” products destroy healthy tissue as well as cancerous tissue, causing significant scarring and disfigurement, and notes that the Therapeutic Goods Administration has warned against them.
Mole removal in Warrawong
King Street Medical offers mole removal by excision, shaving or freezing, along with other minor surgical procedures. GP consultations are bulk billed for Medicare card holders, but an out-of-pocket fee applies to skin excisions, and you will be told the cost before the procedure. The skin excisions page explains the service and how to book.
This article is general information only. Your doctor will advise on the right approach for your skin.
Frequently asked questions
Does mole removal hurt?
The local anaesthetic injection stings for a few seconds, and after that most people feel pressure or tugging rather than pain. Once the anaesthetic wears off, the area may feel sore or tight for a few days. Simple pain relief is usually enough, but ask your doctor or pharmacist which option suits you.
Is mole removal covered by Medicare?
Medicare rebates can apply when a mole is removed for a medical reason, such as checking for skin cancer, but you may still pay a gap. Cosmetic removal of a harmless mole may not attract a rebate. Ask the practice about out-of-pocket costs before the procedure.
How long do pathology results take?
Timing varies with the laboratory and the type of test, so ask your doctor when to expect the result and how you will be told. Your doctor will explain what the result means and whether any further treatment, such as a wider excision or a specialist referral, is needed.