Cancerous Mole Removal

Some moles have the same characteristics as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, each a type of skin cancer, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them and take medical advice about any which cause concern.

Our consultant plastic surgeons are highly experienced in non-cancerous and cancerous mole removal, so can provide the fast and efficient service you need to put your mind at rest.

The same procedure is carried out to remove cancerous and non-cancerous moles.  

The first step is to attend an initial consultation with one of our consultant plastic surgeons.  This consultation will enable us to assess your mole/moles and determine the best approach to treatment.

We appreciate that you will want to have cancerous mole removal surgery as a matter of speed so you will be offered an appointment very quickly, usually within five days, to return for treatment.

Cancerous mole removal is usually carried out under a local anaesthetic, so only the affected area will be numbed, and you will be able to stay awake throughout.

Your surgeon will remove the mole with a scalpel, taking great care to ensure it is fully removed, before completing the procedure with stitches and a dressing, if necessary.  If the affected area is too large to be stitched it may be necessary to undertake a small skin graft or plastic surgery reconstruction.  This can be done at the same time as your mole removal procedure with a local anaesthetic. You will be prescribed pain killers to ease any discomfort and you will be able to return home the same day.

There is very little you need to do to prepare for your treatment.  

You may like to have a bath or a shower before you attend the clinic so that you do not need to get the affected area wet for a few days as it is likely to be a little sore.

You will be fine to drive after your treatment though we do recommend you ask a friend or relative to drive you home if possible so that you can relax and sit in the most comfortable position.  It’s a good idea to wear comfortable, loose clothing which doesn’t interfere with the affected area.

If you have had stitches, they should disappear within 7 – 14 days though a skin graft or reconstruction will take a little longer to heal, usually up to a month.  

You will need to return to the clinic for a follow-up appointment so that we can check that your skin is healing properly.  An appointment will be arranged before you leave the hospital.  If you have any queries or concerns before your follow-up appointment you can get in touch with us and we will be pleased to help.

Find out more about cancerous mole removal at Manchester Plastic Surgery.