Safe and Painless Mole Removal in Manchester | Skin Experts

Syed Qasim October 6, 2023October 6, 2023

Moles are extremely common, with most people having anywhere from 10 to 40 on their body. Also known as nevi, moles are benign growths on the skin that are usually brown or black in color. While the vast majority of moles are harmless, some may be at risk for developing into melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. That’s why it’s important to monitor your moles and have any suspicious ones examined by a dermatologist. If caught and treated early, melanoma has a high cure rate.

Some people elect to have benign moles removed for cosmetic reasons or because they are in an area where they tend to get irritated by clothing or while shaving. Mole removal Manchester is a quick and simple procedure performed by experienced dermatologists. Read on to learn more about mole removal techniques, what to expect during and after the procedure, risks and costs, and how to find the right mole removal provider in Manchester.

Why Remove a Mole?

There are a few main reasons people choose to have a mole removed:

Cosmetic reasons – Moles in prominent areas like the face, neck, hands, and arms may be considered unattractive. Moles can be removed for purely cosmetic motivations.
Irritation – Moles in areas where there is frequent friction with clothing or jewelry can become irritated or inflamed. Also, shaving over raised moles repeatedly can cause irritation.
Suspicion – Moles that exhibit any signs of change or abnormality may require removal by a dermatologist to test for skin cancer. Changes to look out for include increase in size, irregular borders, uneven color, bleeding, or itching/pain.
Biopsy – Sometimes moles need to be removed so a biopsy can be done to determine if cancerous cells are present, especially if melanoma is suspected.

Mole Removal Techniques

There are a few methods dermatologists use to remove moles:

Shave Removal

This is the most common and simple method. After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, the dermatologist uses a sharp, thin blade to shave off the raised portion of the mole. The flat part underneath is left intact so no stitches are needed. This method results in minimal scarring but has a higher risk of the mole growing back over time compared to other techniques.

Excision

Excision involves numbing the mole and surrounding area then surgically cutting out the entire mole and a thin margin of normal looking skin with a scalpel or scissors. Some dissolvable stitches are used to close the wound. This method reduces the chance of recurrence but does result in a more noticeable scar compared to shave removal.

Laser Removal

A laser is used to vaporize the mole. The high intensity beam of light breaks up the pigment. There is no cutting or stitches involved. Mild to moderate scarring can occur with this method and it carries a higher risk of the mole coming back than excision.

Cryotherapy

Liquid nitrogen is applied to the mole, freezing and destroying the cells. The dead tissue later blisters and crusts off. This usually leaves behind a white scar. As with laser treatment, moles removed this way have a higher chance of recurrence.

What to Expect During Mole Removal

The first step is an examination of your moles by the dermatologist to determine the most appropriate removal method. They will also take your medical history into account.

The procedure takes place in the doctor’s office and normally takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on the technique used. The areas around the mole will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic injection. For shave and excision methods, once the anesthetic takes effect you shouldn’t feel any pain as the mole is cut away and the skin closed with sutures if needed.

With laser or cryotherapy, you may feel some stinging or discomfort during treatment. Icing the area afterwards helps alleviate this. Your provider will put a bandage over the site that can be removed at home in a few hours. In total, expect to spend less than an hour at your appointment.

Recovery After Mole Removal

There is minimal downtime after mole removal. Any soreness, swelling, bruising, or redness usually resolves within a week. If sutures were used, they will dissolve within a month. Activity can be resumed right away but avoid strenuous exercise for 1-2 days to allow proper healing.

The site should be kept clean and moisturized. Use sunscreen daily on the area for at least a year since fresh scars that aren’t protected can darken and become more noticeable. Your dermatologist will advise you on scar care and provide instructions on when to come in for follow up appointments so they can examine the site.

Risks and Complications

Mole removal is considered a safe procedure but like any surgical process, some risks are possible:

Infection – uncommon if wound care instructions are properly followed
Bleeding – easily controlled pressure is applied
Scarring – can be minimized by meticulous surgical techniques and wound care
Recurrence – more likely with shave removal or other non-excision techniques
Pain – typically minimal and managed with OTC meds if needed
Skin discoloration – scars may initially appear red or dark but usually fade over time

Choosing an experienced, board-certified dermatologist greatly reduces the chances of complications occurring.

Cost of Mole Removal in Manchester

The cost of mole removal in Manchester can vary based on:

Removal technique – excision is more expensive than shave removal
Size, depth, and location – larger or deeper moles cost more to remove
Doctor fees – prices vary among dermatology practices
Anesthesia fees – if additional anesthesia beyond local numbing is required
Follow up visits – typically included in initial cost

On average, patients in Manchester can expect to pay:

Shave removal: £150 – £300
Excision: £250 – £650
Laser: £200 – £500
Cryotherapy: £100 – £300

Many clinics offer free mole screening consultations to provide exact quotes based on your specific case. Some private health insurance policies may cover mole removal costs but confirm coverage beforehand. Payment plans or financing options are also available through some practices.

Finding a Mole Removal Dermatologist in Manchester

It’s important to have moles removed by an accredited dermatologist rather than attempting DIY home treatments which can lead to infection, scarring, and recurrence. Ask your GP for a referral or research reputable clinics and providers in the Manchester area.

Look for dermatologists who are certified by the General Medical Council and have experience performing mole removal procedures. Many clinics offer online consultations and appointments if an in-person visit is not possible. Read reviews from patients and view before/after photos to evaluate results.

Some top rated options for mole removal in Manchester include:

Manchester Skin Clinic
Pall Mall Medical Manchester
Roussos Dermatology & Skin Cancer Clinic
Dermasurge Clinic Manchester
Dermatology Clinics Manchester

Do not neglect changing or suspicious moles – early detection and treatment is key when dealing with potential melanoma skin cancers. Schedule regular skin checks and screenings to monitor all your moles. Contact a Manchester dermatologist promptly if you have any concerns to discuss mole removal options.