What is a laser mole removal?

Moles start appearing on our skin from our childhood and, in most cases, stay unchanged for many years, without causing any problems. Some disappear over time and some others appear due to sun exposure. A minimally invasive, safe and simple method to remove them is laser, specially compared to surgical removal. The method is effective and fast and can be performed on any area of the face or the body.

Who’s a good candidate?

A laser mole removal procedure concerns patients that have moles that are raised from the skin surface. Flat and smooth moles or the ones that are very dark should be surgically removed. Laser is also appropriate for moles who do not raise suspicion for cancer and do not require biopsy. The ideal candidate is someone who wants to remove his moles for aesthetic reasons, especially if they are in areas where they obstruct everyday routines like getting dressed or using accessories. He should also be aware of the fact that getting exposed to the sun may cause new moles to appear so he should avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen regularly.

Facts I need to know

Laser emits bursts of light radiation directly to the cells that form the mole, leaving the surrounding skin untouched. The mole completely disappears without the need for incisions or stitches. The procedure doesn’t take more than 30′ and always depends on the number of moles removed. It is painless, performed with the use of local anesthetic cream, does not leave any scars or maks and has no recovery time.

Recovery Time

After a laser mole removal patients may notice some redness in the area treated and a bandage is placed for 24 hours. The wound gradually heals and leaves a small pink mark that will fade over time. Patients immediately return to their work and everyday routine. They should take care of the area, protect it from sun exposure and avoid abrupt movements until it naturally heals after 10 to 14 days.

Doctor’s Remarks

It is very important to choose an trained plastic surgeon with experience in skin damage diagnosis as well as the right method of mole removal. I have specialized in Skin Lesions Surgery during my specialty as a surgeon in the General Oncology Hospital of Agioi Anargyroi, that included everyday training in several cases. It is important to make a correct diagnosis and avoid unneeded or even harmful removals with laser or freezing techniques. A suspicious mole must be always alarm doctors and lead them to perform a biopsy.