Cosmetic lesion and mole removal is the elimination of growths that are dark, bumpy, large, or located in plain sight, requiring a more meticulous cosmetic procedure to decrease the likelihood of scarring. Our Chicago board-certified plastic surgeons are experienced in the removal of unattractive moles and lesions. At the time of your consultation, the depth, location, and size of the mole or lesion will be observed and noted in a treatment plan created for the cosmetic removal. Also, the mole or lesion will be observed to determine whether it is cancerous or not so it can be safely removed. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gutowski for an assessment of your mole or lesion, and learn more about your choices for removal so you can have clear skin.
Under most circumstances, moles and lesions are not a medical emergency, but occasionally, they might cause irritation, hinder self-esteem, and cause some level of concern. It is important that cancer is ruled out prior to surgery. The best candidates for mole or lesion removal:
Have a mole or lesion that is causing discomfort or anxiety
Have consulted with a professional to make sure the mole or lesion is noncancerous
Have one or more lesions or moles that are raised, dark, or large
Would like a removal technique that will leave minimal scarring
Have a mole or lesion they would like cosmetically removed
Factors, including the depth, location, and size of the mole or lesion, will be assessed to choose the best technique for removal. Those that are only skin deep or flush with the skin’s surface may be eligible for minimally invasive laser removal techniques or a shaving method. Lesions and moles that have grown from deeper within may require excision, which is a minor surgical procedure. To perform an excision, our surgeons will use a local anesthesia to numb the spot, remove the mole or lesion, and then carefully suture the wound closed for optimal results with minimal scarring. Having a plastic surgeon perform this removal gives patients peace of mind knowing their lesion or mole will be removed and that the surface of their skin will heal, leaving a smoother, more clear surface.
Mole and lesion removal takes just minutes to complete but reveals outstanding results. Cosmetic mole removal is an in office procedure that takes an hour utilizing local anesthesia. For excisions requiring sutures, you may experience slight discomfort for a few days following the procedure while the wound heals. Full healing after lesion removal can be expected in approximately two weeks, but this can vary, depending on the size and shape of the lesion or mole and the technique used. Healing can be expedited by carefully following wound care instructions after the procedure.
Should I have my mole removed?
There are various lesions and moles that can reside on the body and face. Moles that could be cancerous should always be removed and sent in for a biopsy to ensure they are benign. If your mole or lesion is benign, but it causes you to feel self-conscious because of its appearance, then you should consult with a plastic surgeon to ensure it is cosmetically removed so that a smooth outcome can result.
Is scarring a concern?
Anytime a lesion or mole is removed from the body, there is a risk for scarring. This makes going to a board-certified plastic surgeon even more important. They have the experience and skill to not only safely remove the spot but will use techniques to help limit scarring. In addition, if a scar does exist after removal, there are other methods to help reduce the appearance once the wound has healed.
Do I need a plastic surgeon?
While a dermatologist can remove a mole or lesion, especially ones that are proven to be cancerous, many times moles and lesions are removed for cosmetic reasons. A mole or lesion that is highly visible, large, bumpy, or dark may be considered for removal. A plastic surgeon will know how to use a precise cosmetic approach to avoid irregular lines and skin discoloration.
Will a mole grow back after it’s removed?
The majority of moles and lesions that are surgically removed via excision do not come back. While lesions that are removed at the surface level using a shaving method do run the risk of returning, this is rare. Mole and lesion removal usually offers lasting, positive outcomes.
Though moles and lesions might not be a medical problem, they are almost always unwanted. Find out more about mole and lesion removal at Karol A. Gutowski Plastic Surgery to learn more. Furthermore, allowing a professional to check your mole could help ease your worry about any potential health conditions. Schedule a consultation at our Chicago, IL plastic surgery office to have your skin mole or lesion assessed by our surgeons.