Whether you are trying to remove a mole for cosmetic reasons or because it is cancerous, you may worry whether surgical mole removal results in a scar. At Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, TN, we would like you to know that there is no need to fret. In many cases, the resulting scar is imperceptible, even to the eye of a skilled dermatologist. Today, we’d like to talk to you about the timeline for healing after having a mole surgically removed.
How Is Mole Removal Accomplished?
There are two primary procedures performed to remove a mole. In most cases, a mole can be removed in a single office visit. Rarely, a second appointment will be necessary to achieve your desired results.
Shave Excision
Shave excision is the most popular mole removal method. It involves the use of a thin, razor-like tool to slice the mole away from your skin carefully. This technique is so popular because of electrosurgical feathering. The electrosurgical feather is performed by a device with a minuscule electrode at its end. The feathering blends the surrounding skin with the wound’s edges to minimize the appearance of the excision.
There are no stitches required with this treatment method. Once the mole is removed from the skin, it will be held under a microscope to identify signs of skin cancer if you have not already been diagnosed.
Surgical Excision
A surgical excision is similar to a shave excision. The primary difference is the depth of the treatment. This treatment involves cutting out the entire mole down to the subcutaneous fat layer. The incision must be closed with stitches, which may be absorbed by your body rather than being removed.
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
The timeline for mole removal scar healing after mole removal typically ranges from two to three weeks. Younger adults who do not smoke or drink alcohol excessively will notice mole removal healing time reduction faster than an older adult who drinks a bottle of wine per night and smokes a pack of cigarettes daily. Similarly, it will take a smaller incision less time to close up than a larger one.
While there are several methods for scar mole removal healing minimization that you can start once your wound is healed, initial wound care is critical for preventing infection and mitigating your risk of a visible scar. Bring a friend with you to take notes while you are under your physician’s care. Follow after-care instructions to the letter about how to care for the wound and change the dressing.
Learn More Today
Depending on the type of procedure you received, your age and where the mole was located, your scar may fade into your skin within two to three weeks. You may not even be able to tell where exactly the procedure was performed. To learn more about recovery from mole removal, contact the dedicated skin care experts at Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, TN today to schedule your initial consultation. We will help you determine the best method for removing your moles and ensure your treatment is as safe, effective and comfortable as possible.
