1. Information on mole and skin tag removal

Moles and skin tags are frequently removed for a variety of reasons. They are extremely common on the face and on other parts of the body and can be unsightly or cause inconvenience when shaving or applying make-up. More importantly, skin cancer is on the increase in the UK and new screening techniques ensure easier and earlier diagnosis of potentially serious conditions such as melanoma or basal cell carcinoma.

The surgical technique used depends on the depth of the lesion and the cosmetic outcome desired. There are three common methods:

• Micro-excision: this is a minimally invasive procedure, which usually results in the best cosmetic result as the mole is removed without the need for stitches
• Excision with stitches: involves a deeper cut and the removal of an 'ellipse' of skin. Flat moles or those darker in colour will usually require this technique.
• Excision by cauterization: superficial moles can be simply burned away, but the laser light used will not penetrate far enough for most deep moles

2. What is a mole?

By definition, a mole is as any dark spot or irregularity in the skin. However, skin marks such as birthmarks, haemangiomas (abnormal blood vessels) and keratoses (benign or precancerous spots that usually appear after the age of 30years) are not removed using the methods discussed here.

3. What causes moles?

Some people are born with moles. Other moles appear over time. Sun exposure plays a significant role in the development of moles and may accelerate the progression of dysplastic (atypical) moles.

The role of heredity cannot be underemphasized. Some families have a higher incidence of dysplastic moles, a type of mole which can be associated with a higher frequency of melanoma or skin cancer.

4. What will happen during the treatment?

The area to be treated will be cleaned and then numbed using a local anaesthetic.

• Radiosurgery : See the Radiosurgery tab. This is the latest and most advanced way to remove skin lesions whilst minimising the risks of scarring.
• Micro-excision (no stitches): using a blade, the mole is shaved off flush or slightly below the level of skin. Any bleeding is stopped either by using an electrical instrument to cauterize (burn) the area or a haemostatic solution.
• Excision with stitches: a scalpel is used to cut out the mole and a border of surrounding skin. Depending on the depth of excision, stitches are placed either deep (these absorb and do not have to be removed) or on the upper surface of the skin (these don't absorb and will be removed later).
• Excision by cauterization: a fine laser is used to remove the mole in several thin layers

5. Post-treatment care and follow-up

• Simple mole removals do not usually require a follow-up appointment.
• To prevent infection, pay attention to keeping the area clean. Also, avoid any unnecessary stress, strain or trauma to the area to ensure that the wound heals quickly.
• Every mole removed is sent for lab analysis. You will receive a phone call from your doctor if there is any indication of unusual features.
• Facial stitches are typically removed within 4-7 days. Stitches elsewhere are usually removed 8-21 days later, depending on the type of suture and the surgeon's preference.

6. Prevention

• Stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen when outside.
• Be aware of your body and any moles that have changed over time. Raised, lightly coloured moles tend to cause the most anxiety for patients it is the darker, flat lesions that are of true concern.
• Do not hesitate to seek professional advice If you think any skin lesions are changing in size, colour or shape or if they have started to itch or bleed.