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Complete Guide to Mole Removal Treatment in Singapore: Everything You Should Know
What is a mole?
Moles are pigmented spots on our skin that can vary in shape, size, and colour. They can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed later in life). It is normal to have up to 40 moles by the time you are an adult. Moles may also disappear over time and are usually harmless. However, it is important to keep an eye out for any changes that may be of concern, such as changes in size or colour.
What causes moles to appear suddenly?
When pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes, duplicate, moles are formed. The causes of this process aren’t fully established but are believed to be due to a combination of sun exposure, genetics, and hormones. For example, during pregnancy and puberty, hormonal fluctuations may cause new moles to appear. Other possible causes include having fair skin or using certain medications.
What are the different types of moles?
Benign Nevi
Benign nevi are common moles that are usually harmless. They are uniform in colour, round or oval, less than a quarter-inch in diameter, and commonly found in areas widely exposed to the sun.
Dysplastic Nevi
This type of mole has irregular borders and shapes. They may also have varying colours and are larger in size. Dysplastic nevi might be a cause for concern due to their association with a higher risk of developing skin cancer. They often appear due to genetics.
Congenital Nevi
Moles present at birth are known as congenital nevi and can vary in size and shape. As you age, they may change in colour or appearance, such as becoming hairy or raised. They may itch and pose a higher risk of turning cancerous. Therefore, we recommend having them checked by a doctor.
Spitz Nevi
The spitz nevi are commonly found in children rather than adults. They are benign moles that look like round pink bumps. However, it is advisable to consult with a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and have them monitored. While they are rarely a cause for concern and can disappear as children age, they can be removed if they grow or change in shape.
Are moles dangerous, and should you be worried?
Most moles are harmless. However, some can develop into melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer. Regular self-examinations and check-ups with a doctor can help detect any changes in your moles that might indicate a problem. Understanding these signs can help you identify when to seek medical attention and determine whether you should be worried about a particular mole.
What are the causes of alarm with moles?
Asymmetry:
Normal moles are usually symmetrical, meaning one half mirrors the other. If you notice that a mole has an irregular shape or one half does not match the other, it could be a cause for concern.
Border:
Benign moles typically have well-defined and smooth borders. Malignant moles, on the other hand, may have irregular or notched borders. If you observe blurred or jagged edges on a mole, it’s important to have it examined.
Colour:
Moles that display multiple colours or have uneven pigmentation warrant attention. While benign moles are usually a single, consistent colour, melanoma may present with different shades of brown, black, red, blue, or white within the same mole.
Diameter or Dark:
If a mole is larger than or equal to 6 millimetres, approximately the size of a pencil eraser, you should get it checked by a doctor. Some may also recommend looking for lesions that are darker than others, regardless of size.
Evolution:
Pay attention to moles growing in size, changing shape, or becoming raised or elevated. A doctor should evaluate any noticeable change in these aspects.
What are the reasons some undergo mole removal?
Moles are a common feature on the skin, and while many people embrace them as part of their unique identity, others may choose to have them removed for various reasons.
Cosmetic Reasons:
Many opt for mole removal for cosmetic purposes, especially if the mole is prominent or located in a noticeable area. By removing a mole they find aesthetically undesirable, individuals can achieve a more balanced and harmonious appearance, leading to increased self-esteem.
Medical Reasons:
In some cases, mole removal becomes necessary for medical reasons. Moles that exhibit suspicious characteristics, such as irregular borders, uneven colouration, or changes in size, shape, or elevation, may raise concerns about skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Doctors may recommend removing such moles to eliminate the potential risk of cancerous growth.
Emotional Factors
Moles, especially if they are large or in a prominent place, can have an impact on a person’s emotional well-being and self-image. Some may feel self-conscious or uncomfortable with the presence of certain moles, especially if they have faced negative comments or experiences related to their appearance.
What are the types of mole removal?
Excision:
Excision is commonly used for larger moles or those with potential cancerous features. Anaesthesia will be used to numb the area before the mole is removed using a scalpel.
Shaving:
Shave removal is suitable for superficial moles. The doctor uses a razor-like tool to shave off the mole after anaesthesia is applied, resulting in minimal discomfort. This procedure generally results in minimal scarring, leaving only a pink patch.
Laser:
Laser removal employs focused beams of light to break down the pigment in the mole. This non-invasive method is used for small, non-cancerous moles in hard-to-reach places, such as behind the ears. This treatment is a popular choice for those who prefer a non-invasive approach and want to minimise scarring. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.
Cauterization or Plasma Skin Technology:
Cauterization or plasma skin technology involves using heat or plasma energy to remove the mole. The doctor uses a specialised device to deliver controlled heat or plasma to the mole, causing it to vaporise or disintegrate. This method is suitable for smaller moles and can be an effective option for those seeking a non-invasive treatment for mole removal.
How should you prepare for mole removal?
If you have decided to undergo mole removal, proper preparation is essential to ensure a successful procedure and smooth recovery.
Here are some important steps we recommend taking before your mole removal appointment:
Consultation with a doctor
The first step is to schedule a consultation with a doctor. During this appointment, the doctor will examine your moles, listen to your concerns and goals, and then recommend the best course of action. They may assess the features of the moles to determine whether additional testing or inspections are necessary.
Have open and honest communication
It is crucial to have open and honest communication with your doctor. Discuss your expectations, worries, and medical history. Be sure to disclose any underlying medical issues, allergies, or prescription and over-the-counter medications you may be taking. This information will be used to customise the operation and help your doctor offer proper pre- and post-removal recommendations.
Follow pre-removal instructions:
Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for the mole removal operation, which may involve avoiding taking any herbal supplements and blood-thinning medications. Additionally, you might be told to stay away from using retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids, two skincare ingredients, in the target area.
Ensure you are dressed comfortably:
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting attire on the day of the treatment. Depending on the location of the mole, you may need to expose the area for the doctor to access and treat it effectively. Choose clothes that keep you comfortable while allowing access to the targeted location.
Ensure you are dressed comfortably:
Follow the instructions provided by your doctor regarding the appointment time and any specific requirements. Being on time will allow you to complete the required paperwork, address any last-minute inquiries, and guarantee a quick and easy procedure.
How is the healing process after mole removal?
How long is the downtime after the procedure?
After mole removal, it’s important that you follow any post-removal instructions given by your doctor. This may include keeping the wound clean, applying antibiotic ointment, and avoiding activities that can irritate the area. The healing time varies depending on the procedure and the size of the mole.
Excision:
The amount of time it takes for an incision to heal depends on its size and depth. During the healing process, it’s normal to experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the incision site. These symptoms gradually subside over time. You should also avoid activities that may strain or irritate the wound, such as heavy lifting or excessive stretching, during the early stages of healing.
Shaving:
After the procedure, you will be advised to keep the wound clean and dry, as well as to be gentle while cleaning it. It’s important to avoid picking or scratching at the scab that forms. The healing time for a shaved mole removal is generally shorter compared to excision, with it healing within a few weeks. Mild redness and tenderness in the treated area are common during the healing process.
Laser Removal:
Laser mole removal is a non-invasive procedure that typically requires minimal recovery time. You may experience some swelling, redness, or scabbing in the treated area after the procedure, but they should go away with time. As the downtime for this procedure will be minimal, many can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Cauterization or Plasma Skin Technology:
Following a cauterization or plasma skin technology procedure, the treated area may form a scab or crust. Your doctor may recommend applying an antibiotic ointment and keeping the area clean and protected. It’s important to avoid picking or scratching at the scab, as it plays a crucial role in protecting the healing skin underneath. As the skin heals, the scab will eventually come off by itself. The size and depth of the treated area can affect how long it takes for the wound to heal.
Can you remove a mole yourself?
We strongly advise against removing a mole at home by yourself. DIY methods such as cutting, burning, or using over-the-counter creams can lead to infection, scarring, and incomplete removal.
While these DIY solutions, which may include devices, can seem tempting due to their convenience, you run the risk of hurting yourself. For example, you may be removing a mole without knowing whether it’s benign or malignant. If it’s the latter, the cells may spread throughout your body without you knowing because only the top of the mole has been removed and not in its entirety.
Incomplete Removal:
DIY mole removal methods are often ineffective in completely removing the mole. Incomplete removal may lead to the mole returning in a larger size or with altered characteristics, making any subsequent evaluation or treatment more challenging.
Risk of Scarring:
Home removal methods can introduce bacteria and contaminants to the open wound created during the process. The risk of infection significantly increases when proper sterile techniques, equipment, and wound care practices are not followed. Infections can lead to pain, redness, swelling, pus formation, and other complications that may require medical intervention.
Risk of Infection:
Cutting or burning a mole without professional expertise can cause unnecessary damage to the surrounding healthy skin, leading to unsightly scars. Scars may be permanent and may require additional treatments, such as scar revision procedures, to improve their appearance.
Delayed Diagnosis and Treatment:
Doctors can identify the characteristics and changes in moles that may indicate skin cancer or other serious conditions. By attempting to remove a mole yourself, you may unintentionally destroy valuable evidence that can aid in the diagnosis and treatment of a potential health issue.
Would you like to know more about mole removal?
We hope this article has been a useful guide to you on the topic of mole removal. However, if you have any questions or doubts, feel free to contact us and we will get in touch with you soon.