Is the lesion benign and does not require histopathological examination? A quicker and less invasive option is laser removal of moles and skin lesions — no scalpel and no stitches.

Surgical mole removal – when is it necessary?

Skin naevi, commonly called moles by patients, often pose no direct threat to health, yet they require careful and regular monitoring. Their shape, colour, size or structure may change over the years, which in some cases signals pathological processes, including the development of skin cancer. If you notice any worrying change, a consultation with a specialist – a dermatologist or a surgeon – is essential.

One of the most effective methods of prevention and treatment is surgical excision of the mole with histopathological examination. It is a procedure performed for diagnostic, therapeutic and aesthetic purposes. Although many patients may find this procedure invasive, at MM Clinic it is in fact a quick, painless and often the only effective way to prevent more serious health problems and to regain full comfort and peace of mind.

Which moles should worry us? When should you see a specialist?

Any significant change on the surface of the skin, especially one involving a pigmented mole, should attract our attention. Moles differ on everyone's skin, so it is important to know your moles and to be aware of any change. The most important warning signs include: a change in the shape of the mole, an uneven, blurred or ragged border, a change in colour or uneven colour within a single mole, an increase in size, especially if the mole is larger than 6mm, a new mole appearing after the age of 21, itching, bleeding, a change in the consistency of the mole (it becomes harder, softer or more raised). If you notice any of these changes, consult a medical specialist such as a dermatologist or a surgeon. Remember that early detection is key to the effective treatment of some forms of skin cancer, such as melanoma.

Types of moles that can be removed surgically at MM Clinic:

Pigmented moles

We choose the surgical method when a mole raises diagnostic doubts and requires histopathological examination, is large, deeply seated or has previously changed in appearance. Excision with a margin of healthy tissue allows the material to be sent for examination — which the laser method does not allow.

Lipomas

A lipoma is a collection of fat cells surrounded by a thin fibrous capsule, usually just beneath the skin. It is a benign tumour made up of adipose tissue. It is harmless, as it does not contain malignant cancer cells. Patients usually decide to have lipomas removed for aesthetic reasons.

Sebaceous cysts

A sebaceous cyst is a cyst that forms around hair follicles and sebaceous glands. It is caused by a blockage of the opening of the hair follicles and a gradual build-up of epidermis and sebum within them. It is filled with white and yellow, liquid or semi-liquid content. Sebaceous cysts may occur singly or in groups, and their diameter can range from a few millimetres to several centimetres.

Warts

A wart is the general name for a viral wart. Viral warts are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus penetrates human skin through damage or micro-damage to the epidermis and multiplies in epithelial cells, forming a lump with a keratinised surface. A wart forms approximately 2 months to a year and a half after HPV infection. Its rate of growth varies from person to person. A wart is usually oval in shape, and its surface is rough and skin-coloured, yellowish or brown. Warts may occur singly or in groups.

What does the mole removal procedure involve?

Skin lesion removal procedures may differ slightly depending on the type of procedure, the location and size of the lesion, and the severity of the changes. In general, however, the procedure is divided into several fixed stages.

Stage 1: Consultation and planning

We perform the surgical procedure after a thorough examination and assessment of the skin lesion. In some cases the doctor may order additional tests, such as a biopsy, to better understand the nature of the lesion.

Stage 2: Anaesthesia

Surgical mole removal is performed under local anaesthesia. This anaesthesia makes the area of skin around the lesion insensitive to pain.

Stage 3: Removal of the lesion

Most skin lesions are removed with a scalpel. The lesion is usually removed with a small margin of healthy skin around it to ensure that all potentially diseased cells are removed.

Stage 4: Bleeding control and wound closure

After the lesion has been excised, the doctor controls the bleeding with electrocoagulation, a technique that uses electric current to “remove” blood vessels and prevent bleeding. The doctor then closes the wound with stitches.

Stage 5: Post-operative care

After the procedure, the patient receives instructions on wound care.

Aftercare following mole removal

Immediately after the procedure you should avoid baths that could wet the operated area, so as not to disrupt the healing process. The doctor may recommend applying specific ointments or creams to the wound to speed up healing and reduce the risk of infection.

After the procedure it is recommended to avoid excessive sun exposure. Solar radiation can lead to scarring and irritation, so it is advisable to use a cream with a high UV filter, wear protective clothing and avoid exposing the operated site to direct sunlight, at least until the wound has fully healed.

The stitches are removed after about 7 days, depending on the rate of healing and the area of the body where the procedure was performed.

Remember to monitor the progress of healing and to report any worrying symptoms, such as redness, swelling, pain or fever, to your doctor.

Mole cauterisation — what is it?
Moles – how they form and how to remove them
How to remove moles safely?
Laser mole removal — when is the procedure worth considering?
When can moles be dangerous?
Removing skin lesions and moles with a fractional CO2 laser

Surgical mole removal in Wrocław