Removing moles is one of the most popular medical procedures. The presence of a mole can cause discomfort, and sometimes even prove hazardous to health. In view of this, today the removal of unwanted moles is actively practiced. There are several ways to complete this procedure.
- What is a mole
- Do moles need to be removed
- Why are moles dangerous
- Can benign and malignant moles be removed
- Which doctor to contact
- Indications for mole removal
- Contraindications – when moles cannot be removed
- Is it possible to remove moles of pregnant, lactating, during menstruation
- Is it possible to remove moles on the head in the hair
- Is it possible to remove hanging moles
- Diagnostics
- What tests need to be taken
- When do you need dermatoscopy
- Surgical Mole Removal Method
- Operation Technique
- Removing large moles
- Removal of malignant moles
- Anesthesia – in what cases do general anesthesia
- How long does the operation last
- Surgical excision sutures – do sutures always
- Surgical method – what effect (result) from the operation can be expected
- What is a histological examination of a remote mole
- Postoperative period with surgical removal of a mole – how long does the wound heal
- When the stitches are removed
- Are scars visible after surgical removal of a mole
- How much is the surgical removal of a mole – price, cost
- Laser removal of moles on the face, neck, chest, nose
- Operation Technique
- Doctors reviews
- Laser removal of red moles
- Pros (advantages) of laser mole removal
- Cons of Laser Mole Removal
- How much does laser mole removal cost – price, cost
- Other mole removal methods
- Electrocoagulation
- Radio wave method
- Cryodestruction
- Ultrasound Removal
- Precautions after mole removal
- What can not be done after removal of moles
- When to sunbathe after removing a mole
- How much can not be washed after removing a mole
- Skin care after mole removal
- How to remove a mole at home
- What tool to choose to remove moles at home
- Pharmacy preparations for moxibustion moles
- Folk remedies
- What moles can not be removed at home – why not
- Possible consequences (complications) after mole removal
- Melanoma
- Keloid scar
- Seal
- High body temperature
- The wound festers, gets wet, does not heal
- Dark red spots
- Scar
- Why, after removal, the mole grows again, hurts and itches
- Useful videos on mole and wart removal methods
What is a mole
From a medical point of view, the mole is a pigmented neoplasm of a benign nature, which happens in various shades of brown. The composition of the nevus includes melanin and melanocyte cells.
Nevuses are congenital or may appear over time. There are different parameters and colors: flat or convex, miniature and large, light shade and dark brown.
Do moles need to be removed
Why are moles dangerous
Such spots on the human body do not pose any danger, they can only cause some inconvenience. They become a problem when a mole begins to degenerate from a benign formation into melanoma. It grows, penetrating deeper into the skin.
This provokes the formation of metastases that transform the mole into malignant cells, which ultimately leads to the formation of a cancerous tumor. This kind of malignant formation without timely medical intervention can affect other organs of the human body.
Can benign and malignant moles be removed
It is impossible to give a definite answer to this question. Both benign moles and malignant ones undergo surgical removal.
If the nevi are small, do not cause discomfort and do not show signs of inflammation or degeneration, then they are not dangerous and therefore do not need to be eliminated.
Skin lesions, which cause some suspicion, pain and are characterized by other manifestations of malignant tumors, require immediate intervention by a specialist.
Which doctor to contact
You can resort to the help of a family doctor, therapist. After the initial examination, he will give a referral to a specialist with a narrower profile, if necessary. The next doctor in this chain will be a dermatologist.
The doctor performs a thorough examination of a suspicious mole and, if necessary, prescribes dermatoscopy. The procedure is painless, allows you to determine the internal state of the birthmark.
If the result of the study is negative, then to solve the problem it will be necessary to consult a surgeon. This specialist will give an adequate qualified assessment and recommendation on how best to eliminate the neoplasm.
Indications for mole removal
The main reasons why experts recommend removing this type of education are as follows:
- injury to the nevus;
- the large size of the mole and its unaesthetic appearance;
- when it develops into malignant (malignancy).
The last indication requires the fastest medical intervention. However, patients often seek help in fairly late stages of the disease. Most often this happens due to ignorance of the main signs of malignancy of the nevi.
The basis for the development of the malignancy process is genetic heredity, frequent trauma to moles, if they are located in places where contact with clothing is maximum.
Also, an indication for the formation of a malignant formation is a considerable number of birthmarks on the whole body (if there are more than 15), as well as a long stay under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, insolation.
The main indicators of the development of malignancy, which are worth paying attention to, are the following factors:
- Asymmetric birthmark shape.
- If the nevus has fuzzy outlines and discharge in the form of liquid or blood. This is especially true in cases where the bleeding process occurs for no particular reason, without injury. Pain
- Inhomogeneous composition, that is, the appearance of bulges, spots and other signs previously not observed before.
- The magnitude of the nevus. A visit to a specialist is required when the size of the skin lesion is more than 0. 2 inch and it continues to grow further.
- The process of depigmentation or color change.
- With a malignant formation, the hairs from the mole disappear, which are considered to be normal.
Sometimes doctors recommend the removal of birthmarks in order to avoid negative consequences, although the skin lesion may not affect the life of its owner.
This occurs when the mole is localized in the scalp (the probability of damage is high from combing or dyeing the hair); in the perineum or groin, in the armpits, where the chance of harm with razor accessories is great.
Contraindications – when moles cannot be removed
There are a number of contraindications in which it is not recommended to carry out medical measures to eliminate this skin defect. But these factors are not absolute. If the risk of developing a malignant tumor is great, then some of them can be ignored.
Experts do not recommend the removal of moles, provided:
- unstable blood pressure;
- in the presence of hepatitis;
- during the menstrual cycle;
- if infectious skin diseases are present at the site of the birthmark;
- with serious heart disease;
- when the level of blood coagulation is at a minimum level.
If the elimination of a mole is defined as an extremely necessary therapeutic measure, then surgical intervention is prescribed even with contraindications
In this case, it is worthwhile to adequately analyze the expected risks and the expected benefits for the patient. For additional consultation, you will have to contact an infectious disease specialist, cardiologist, endocrinologist.
Is it possible to remove moles of pregnant, lactating, during menstruation
Doctors also strongly r
ecommend refraining from removing moles in infancy and pregnant women.
In the first case, doctors suggest resorting to a medical procedure to achieve the adolescent’s age of the child, in the second – after the delivery of labor and after the termination of breastfeeding.
During menstruation, doctors are not advised to remove moles, due to alleged complications:
- profuse and prolonged bleeding in the wound area;
- hypertension;
- hormonal imbalance;
- poor healing of the removal site.
If the cycle is regular, surgery can be performed between 8-13 days of the cycle or from 18-24 days. In the event that menstruation does not start on schedule, surgery should be postponed.
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Is it possible to remove moles on the head in the hair
It is possible, and sometimes even necessary. This is especially true in cases where the presence of a nevus on the head carries some danger due to its degeneration into a malignant tumor.
Doctors recommend removing moles that can easily be damaged or rubbed with a hat. If the nevus acts as a cosmetic defect, then it is also proposed to get rid of it.
In other cases, when education does not cause inconvenience, it can be left, but for safety reasons, follow the recommendations for care:
- gently use a comb;
- Do not apply cosmetics containing chemical elements;
- do not use a hair dryer often;
- Do not try to remove the mole yourself and monitor its changes.
Is it possible to remove hanging moles
According to most experts, hanging moles is more a cosmetic problem than a medical one, because they are the least susceptible to the malignancy process.
Doctors advise their elimination only if they cause inconvenience. If this type of cutaneous growth does not bother its owner, then it is better not to touch it.
Diagnostics
What tests need to be taken
The most modern technologies are used to study the birthmark. The most common way to check the nevus on the body is dermatoscopy.
This procedure is carried out using a special device called a dermatoscope. Thanks to a multiple increase, these devices make it possible to better examine and fix any neoplasms that occur on the body.
The study of moles is carried out using computer diagnostics. This procedure is carried out using a more modern digital LED dermatoscope.
Histological diagnosis is also used when there is a suspicion of malignancy of the nevus. A biopsy of the skin lesion is performed only after its removal.
Histological diagnosis is carried out only as a last resort, often, the nature of the mole can be determined using dermatoscopy. This is the most optimal option, as it allows one to get an idea of the cellular structure of the nevus without physical impact and violation of the integrity of the tissue.
When do you need dermatoscopy
The procedure of dermatoscopy is performed in order to determine the nature of the neoplasm on the human body. Its need arises when, during a visual examination, there is a suspicion of the process of degeneration of the mole into a malignant formation.
Surgical Mole Removal Method
Operation Technique
Surgical removal of the mole is carried out using a scalpel under the influence of local anesthesia. Elements of distance education transmit for histological examination. The entire area around the mole is treated with an antiseptic.
In order to avoid relapse of a mole, during a surgical event, the doctor partially cuts off healthy tissue. After the mole removal procedure is completed, a certain number of sutures are applied, depending on the initial size of the nevus. Seven days later they are removed.
After the operation, the patient is not delayed for a long time, his next visit to a medical institution occurs in a few days to carry out the dressing.
Removing large moles
Large moles are a type of pigmented lesions. They can cause a lot of inconvenience to their owner and cause special attention of a qualified specialist, especially when in diameter they exceed 0’4 inch.
To eliminate this kind of nevus, doctors recommend resorting to a surgical method that allows you to eliminate large and deep formations.
Removal of malignant moles
To remove malignant tumors, surgery is the best option . This method allows you to eliminate a degenerated mole completely, regardless of its size and depth. The procedure is performed quickly, efficiently and painlessly.
When malignant birthmark to eliminate it, doctors recommend using a method that involves waves of electric current. Under its influence, necrosis of all malignant cells occurs.
Anesthesia – in what cases do general anesthesia
To make pain minimal or eliminate it altogether, doctors resort to anesthesia. Removal of moles is carried out both under general anesthesia and under local anesthesia.
Everything will depend on the parameters of the birthmark and its location on the body. Most often, to eliminate large moles located in inaccessible places, general anesthesia is used.
How long does the operation last
The total duration of the operation is 30-40 minutes.
Surgical excision sutures – do sutures always
The end of the surgery is not always accompanied by suturing. After the patient is anesthetized and a suspicious mole is excised with a scalpel, in one case they can stitch, in the other
they can be cauterized with a special device.
In the first case, the wound is treated with an antiseptic, in the second – with an antibiotic. Further, if necessary, stitches or bandage are applied. In both the first and second cases, the birthmark element is sent for a biopsy.
Surgical method – what effect (result) from the operation can be expected
Surgical removal of a mole makes it possible to get rid of large moles and malignant tumors in the safest way . Such manipulation allows you to get rid of an unwanted growth for 1 time, and also reduces the likelihood of relapse.
The result of the surgical method can also be the development of an allergic reaction to some medications previously used in anesthesia. After the operation, there is a likelihood of swelling, pain, burning sensation. When a wound heals, a scar or keloid scar forms.
What is a histological examination of a remote mole
A histological examination of the removed mole is carried out when there is a suspicion of the process of degeneration of the birthmark into a malignant one.
To conduct this study, the doctor cuts off a small fragment of a suspicious growth and gives it to the laboratory for analysis. During the analysis, it becomes known what type of skin lesion was.
Histology results will be ready in 7 days.
Postoperative period with surgical removal of a mole – how long does the wound heal
The rehabilitation period after surgery lasts for 2 weeks. During the postoperative period, you should be especially careful and careful:
- Do not try to tear off the dried crust on the wound;
- protect it from water and ultraviolet radiation;
- Regularly carry out dressings (alone or with the help of a doctor);
- in case of any changes, consult a doctor.
When the stitches are removed
After surgery, the sutures are removed after 7-10 days.
Are scars visible after surgical removal of a mole
The answer is yes. With this method, an incision is made with a scalpel and stitches are applied, so the appearance of a scar is inevitable.
How much is the surgical removal of a mole – price, cost
Surgical removal of nevus is the most budgetary option, unlike other methods.
On the territory of the American Federation, such an operation will cost an average of $ 7 – $ 95; abroad, for example in Germany – from 30 to 100 euros; residents of the Ukrainian state can remove the mole, giving the amount starting from 300 UAH and above.
The cost of the nevus removal method directly depends on the complexity of the surgical intervention, the parameters of the birthmark and the clinic itself in which the operation is performed.
Laser removal of moles on the face, neck, chest, nose
Operation Technique
During surgery, in this case, a laser beam is used. Pre-anesthesia is performed at the local level and then the process of burning the nevus with a laser. The total duration of the procedure is no more than half an hour. The final result of the operation will be obvious after a week.
Doctors reviews
Due to the many advantages of such manipulation, most doctors (85%) recommend that in this way get rid of birthmarks.
Laser removal of red moles
As a result of a malfunction of the vascular system, red moles are formed on the body – angiomas. Doctors do not recommend eliminating them on their own, and the laser burning process is the most acceptable in this case. One procedure is not always enough, but the result will be clean, healthy skin, without a scar.
Pros (advantages) of laser mole removal
The positive aspects of this procedure include the following points:
- Most often, manipulation is carried out once.
- The wound heals quickly.
- Lack of bleeding.
- Healthy tissue around the nevus is not affected.
- There is no scar left.
Cons of Laser Mole Removal
- High price.
- Possible pain.
- The inability to conduct additional studies of a fragment of the removed nevus.
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How much does laser mole removal cost – price, cost
The cost of laser removal will be affected by the parameters of the removed growth. Foreign countries provide this service at a price of 70 to 100 euros, on American territory – from $ 7,48, and in Ukraine – from 500-1500 UAH.
Other mole removal methods
Electrocoagulation
The essence of the procedure is to use a high-frequency electric charge, which is used for cauterization. After the operation, a small spot remains in the form of a burn, which disappears after 1-1.5 months.
Radio wave method
Manipulation is very similar to laser removal, only a radio wave high-frequency knife is used. A huge advantage is the absence of pain and scar.
Cryodestruction
For removal, liquid nitrogen is used, with which the birthmark is frozen. To completely eliminate the nevus, more than one procedure may be required; this method does not give a 100% guarantee of complete removal.
Ultrasound Removal
With this manipulation, high frequency ultrasound is involved – up to 4 MHz. This method allows for the non-contact process of excision and coagulation of modified soft tissues. It is considered one of the most effective ways to get rid of nevus, without its reappearance.
Precautions after mole removal
What can not be done after removal of moles
The operation is not the final step in eliminating the cutaneous growth. Subsequently, during the rehabilitation period, there is a need for special care for the wound that has arisen. There are certain actions that are strictly prohibited:
- To be in direct sunlight.
- Allow water to enter the site of intervention for 4-5 days.
- Do not use body cosmetics.
- Do not comb or scratch the postoperative area.
- Avoid rubbing wounds on clothing.
When to sunbathe after removing a mole
Doctors recommend preserving the place where the mole used to be, until it is completely healed, in order to avoid relapse.
Only after the postoperative skin area has completely healed and will have a natural color, you can soak under the bright rays of the sun. However, exposure to ultraviolet light should be short-lived.
How much can not be washed after removing a mole
For speedy healing, you should refrain from bath procedures for 4 days. A visit to the bath or sauna should be postponed for 2 weeks.
Skin care after mole removal
Skin care is necessary only when the removal of the mole has occurred by surgery. Usually, after such an operation, there is a need to treat the wound with an antiseptic solution and carry out regular dressings.
Such procedures must be followed before removing the stitches and some time later. In other cases, subject to simple hygiene rules, the place where the mole is removed will heal itself.
How to remove a mole at home
To make this decision, the advice of a qualified professional is important. Only after confirmation that the presence of nevus is not dangerous and is not a malignant formation, it is possible to consider methods of home removal of the cutaneous growth.
Folk remedies for this procedure are more than enough. Such natural components, although they require long-term therapy, are considered the safest. Along with traditional medicine, they resort to the help of pharmacy drugs.
What tool to choose to remove moles at home
The means by which this problem can be solved can conditionally be divided into 2 categories:
- radical (aimed at quick elimination by cauterization);
- sparing (use of improvised means as traditional healers).
The choice will depend on the condition of the mole and the recommendations of the doctor.
Pharmacy preparations for moxibustion moles
It is important to remember that before using a pharmaceutical, it is important to get a recommendation from your doctor.
Among the most common herbal medicines, Stefalin Ointment can be noted. It is necessary to treat a mole with it during the day and before bedtime, leaving it all night. In order to avoid injury to healthy areas of the skin, a patch should be applied to the nevus.
To burn a birthmark, you can also use:
- ampoules “Super Celandine”, which includes hydroxide, chloride and sodium bicarbonate;
- Collomac “;
- Cryopharm “and” Wartner “- which has a freezing effect on education and contributes to its destruction.
These drugs belonging to the category of radicals should be used strictly according to the instructions in order to prevent side effects.
Folk remedies
Celandine
To remove a benign formation, you can use the juice of this medicinal plant. Phytotherapists recommend treating the mole daily about 3 times until the formation becomes dry and disappears. And you can make an ointment by mixing vegetable juice with baby cream in a ratio of 1: 2.
Apple vinegar
Unlike table, apple cider vinegar is a more gentle medicine used to combat moles. To completely remove the growth, it is recommended to apply 2 drops to the desired place up to 4 times a day.
Iodine
It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and drying effects. In view of this, regular treatment of the nevus with this agent will dry the mole completely and will contribute to its decay.
Garlic
This product is also an effective fighter against moles. If the garlic is grated and mixed with salt, then a natural ointment is formed. It can be applied to the nevus up to 4 times a day, glued with a band-aid. The removal procedure will take a week.
Laundry soap
Due to its properties, it actively fights against various kinds of moles. The essence of the treatment is as follows: before going to bed, the birthmark is treated several times with soap, the procedure is repeated at night.
In the morning, the nevus should become inflamed, which will be evidence of his death. There is no need to repeat the manipulation, after some time the mole will dry up and disappear.
What moles can not be removed at home – why not
There are a number of formations called melanomas and papillomas. They are characterized by unusual parameters and a loose surface. Doctors undertake their elimination only on condition that the probability of their degeneration is very high.
The danger is that damage to such a growth can provoke and accelerate the process of malignancy. And therefore, trying to eliminate them yourself is strictly not recommended.
Also in this category are age spots, the removal of which can cause blood poisoning.
Largest moles have the highest risk of adverse effects
Possible consequences (complications) after mole removal
Melanoma
As a result of removal of the nevus, a malignant tumor may form in its place. In such circumstances, there is a need for surgical intervention to eliminate melanoma.
During the operation, soft tissues are excised, retreating from the edge of the spot several inch in depth and in width. Sutures are p
laced on the resulting wound, and a fragment of the removed tissue is sent for histological examination.
Keloid scar
The source of the formation of such a postoperative result is 2 reasons: removal of a large birthmark; in cases where the procedure is performed by an insufficiently experienced doctor.
Seal
If such a phenomenon occurs, you must immediately seek advice from the treating oncologist, in order to avoid the formation of a malignant tumor.
High body temperature
May appear some time after removal. Experts note a similar trend as the body’s response to surgery. If hyperthermia lasts about 2 days, measures should not be taken, if longer, antibiotic treatment is prescribed.
The wound festers, gets wet, does not heal
In those cases when an infection gets into it. This occurs when the dried upper part of the wound disappears. This inflammatory phenomenon can be accompanied by itching and purulent discharge, redness and swelling.
Dark red spots
Occur if subcutaneous hemorrhage was present during the surgical procedure.
Scar
These are the consequences of almost any method used to remove a mole. Its appearance will depend on the parameters of the birthmark and the procedure used.
Why, after removal, the mole grows again, hurts and itches
A mole can grow again if it was not completely removed. Most often this happens after removal by the laser method, after cryodestruction or electrocoagulation.
These methods allow you to get rid of the upper part of the growth, which is located on the surface of the skin. In such situations, the likelihood of relapse is quite high.
Removing moles can be done in a variety of ways, both in the clinic and at home. It is important to determine whether the formation is benign or malignant.
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