Mole Removal
Mole removal is one of the most common procedures I perform, whether a mole is causing you concern because it has changed, is catching on clothing or jewellery, or you would simply prefer it were not there. Most moles are entirely benign, but any lesion that is new, changing, or unusual in appearance should always be assessed properly before a decision is made about removal. Where there is any doubt, the mole is sent for laboratory analysis so we know exactly what we are dealing with.
I assess every mole carefully before recommending how it should be removed, choosing the technique that best suits the type of lesion, its location and your reasons for wanting it removed.
Assessment
I examine the mole, sometimes with a dermatoscope, to judge its nature and decide whether shave excision or full surgical excision is the more appropriate approach.
Removal under local anaesthetic
The area is numbed and the mole is either shaved level with the surrounding skin, or formally cut out and the wound closed with sutures, depending on the technique chosen.
Histology and follow-up
Unless removal is for purely cosmetic reasons, the tissue is sent to the laboratory for analysis. Results typically take seven to ten days, and I review these with you at a follow-up appointment along with how the wound is healing.
Who is it for?
Mole removal may be appropriate for you if you:
Have a mole that has changed in size, shape, colour or texture, or has started to itch, bleed or feel different
Have been referred with a lesion that needs assessment and, where appropriate, removal for histology
Have a mole that catches on clothing, jewellery or razors and causes recurrent irritation
Would like a benign mole removed for cosmetic reasons, for example on the face or neck
Before & After
Coming soon
Before-and-after photographs are shared only with each patient’s consent. Examples will be added here in due course — in the meantime, Dr Borges is happy to discuss expected results at your consultation.
Shave excision generally heals as a small, flat mark rather than a linear scar, while a full surgical excision leaves a fine line scar along the natural skin creases wherever possible. Most scars settle well over several months, though the final appearance depends on the size and site of the mole, your skin type, and how carefully you protect the area from the sun during healing.
What to expect
Recovery from mole removal is usually straightforward, and most patients are back to normal activities within a day or two.
First 24-48 hours
Keep the area clean and dry, and expect some mild tenderness or a graze-like sensation if shave excision was used.
First 1-2 weeks
Sutures, if used, are removed at your follow-up appointment, and any histology results are discussed with you at this visit.
Beyond 2 weeks
The wound continues to settle, and normal exercise can generally resume once healing is well established.
Why choose this procedure
Why Patients Choose Mole Removal
Peace of mind
A mole that concerns you can be properly assessed and, where appropriate, sent for histology to confirm exactly what it is.
Quick and minimally disruptive
Most moles are removed under local anaesthetic in well under an hour, with no general anaesthetic or hospital stay required.
Relief from irritation
Removing a mole that catches or rubs can resolve ongoing discomfort in daily life.
Improved confidence
For moles in visible areas, removal can be a straightforward way to feel more comfortable in your skin.
Risks
Mole removal is generally a very safe, low-risk procedure, but as with any skin surgery there are potential risks to be aware of:
Scarring
Any removal leaves some mark on the skin, and occasionally scars can be more visible, raised or widened than expected.
Infection
Uncommon, and usually settles quickly with simple wound care or a short course of antibiotics if needed.
Bleeding
Minor bleeding or bruising can occur at the time of removal or in the days after.
Incomplete removal
Occasionally histology shows the mole extends beyond the margins removed, meaning a further, small procedure is needed to clear it fully.
Numbness or altered sensation
Rarely, nearby nerve endings can be affected, causing temporary or, very occasionally, lasting numbness around the site.
Recurrence
Moles removed by shave excision in particular can occasionally regrow and need further treatment.
When a mole is removed because it is clinically suspicious, this is usually assessed and funded through the NHS or your health insurer following referral. If you would like a benign mole removed for reassurance or cosmetic reasons, this is available on a self-pay basis, with a price quote provided after consultation.
Book a ConsultationLocations
Consultations and surgery take place at accredited hospitals and clinics across Kent and London, with consultations available in English, Portuguese and Spanish.
Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital
Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4UL
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Wells Health, Fordcombe Hospital
Fordcombe Road, Fordcombe, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 0RD
Google Map →Wells Health, Tunbridge Wells Hospital
Tonbridge Road, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4QJ
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