Facial Mole Removal
Removing unwanted moles
If you have moles or other skin lesions that cause you concern, removal through surgical excision or non surgical techniques such as high-frequency radio frequency may be options to consider. While most moles are harmless, certain types, particularly flat and deeply pigmented ones, could be associated with a higher risk of developing into malignant skin conditions. It is advisable to have these moles assessed and removed by a qualified medical professional such as you GP or a dermatologist. Dr Imani’s expertise in skin cancer surgery may assist in diagnosing and managing such lesions. Mole removal generally results in minimal scarring, which typically blends with the surrounding skin.
Are there risks involved?
Yes, like any medical procedure, mole removal carries some risks. Dr Imani will discuss all potential risks, benefits, and alternatives with you during your consultation. Afterward, our practice staff will provide you with detailed, procedure-specific information.
Surgical Mole Removal Risks
This includes excision with or without stitches or shave removal using a scalpel.
1. Scarring
• The most common outcome.
• Shave removals often leave a flat scar or skin discolouration.
• Excision with stitches may leave a linear scar, which fades over time but may remain visible.
2. Infection
• Rare but possible.
• Signs include redness, swelling, pain, or pus. May require antibiotics.
3. Bleeding or Haematoma
• Minor bleeding is expected, but occasionally a haematoma (blood collection under the skin) may occur.
4. Delayed Healing
• More common in areas with poor circulation or in patients with conditions like diabetes.
• Smokers are also at higher risk.
5. Nerve Damage
• Uncommon but possible if the mole is located near sensitive nerves.
• May lead to temporary or permanent numbness.
6. Recurrence
• If the mole isn’t completely removed (more likely with shave excision), it may grow back.
• In rare cases, regrowth could obscure signs of a malignant mole if it wasn't adequately tested.
7. Allergic Reaction
• Possible from local anaesthetic or wound care products.
8. Unsatisfactory Cosmetic Result
• Skin texture or pigmentation changes.
• Keloid or hypertrophic scarring (especially in individuals prone to this).
Non-Surgical Mole Removal Risks
This may include laser treatment, and radio frequency
1. Incomplete Removal
• Common with laser or topical methods, especially if the mole extends deeper into the skin.
• Can lead to recurrence or misdiagnosis, especially if the mole wasn’t biopsied.
2. No Biopsy
• Non-surgical methods usually do not allow for histological testing, meaning skin cancer could be missed.
• This is a serious concern for moles with atypical features.
3. Pigmentation Changes
• Hypo-pigmentation (lighter spots) or hyper-pigmentation (darker spots) may occur.
• More noticeable in people with darker skin tones.
4. Scarring
• Though marketed as “scarless,” lasers and freezing, or radio frequency can still cause textural or colour changes in the skin.
5. Infection or Irritation
• Especially if skin isn't properly cared for afterward.
Important Safety Tips
• Always have a mole assessed by your GP or dermatologist before removal to rule out skin cancer.
• Avoid cosmetic mole removal without prior medical evaluation, especially for:
o New or changing moles
o Irregular borders or colours
o Moles that bleed, itch, or grow
Important Information and Disclaimers:
• Any surgical or non-surgical procedure carries risks.
• Individual outcomes, results, experience and recovery times vary based on individual’s genetics, environmental factors, diet, exercise, sun protection, smoking and general health. Individual’s outcomes are only relevant for that individual and they do not necessarily reflect or guarantee the same outcome for another individual given the same treatment.
• The information provided is general and educational in nature.
• It does not constitute medical advice nor replace consultation with a qualified health professional.
• We encourage all patients to seek a second opinion and consult their general practitioner for a referral before engaging in a surgical and non-surgical consultation with us.
Still have questions?
Contact us to arrange your consultation with Dr Imani.
Anaesthesia: Local anaesthetic with or without sedation.
In/Outpatient: Outpatient, same day.
Length of Surgery: Variable, depending on the procedure.
Pain Score: Minimal discomfort, typically limited to the anaesthetic injection (if required).
Recovery and Getting Back to Work: Most patients can return to normal activities immediately after removal of small moles and lesions. Some moles may require a dressing, which may be worn for 24 hours to 7 days.
Duration of Results: Long-term.
The cost of clinic based RF or laser assisted mole removal under local anaesthesia in Perth
-
$700 + GST for a single mole
-
$1800 + GST for multiple moles (up to 5 face/neck moles)
- Costs apply to medication that will be prescribed.
Cost of Surgical Mole removal in Perth
Understanding the Costs of Your Surgery
The total cost of your surgery depends on several factors and includes fees from different providers who are involved in your care. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Surgical Fee
• This is the fee for Specialist surgeon’s services and is based on the complexity of your surgery and the surgeon’s expertise and experience.
• You will receive a detailed surgical fee estimate after your consultation outlining the possible inclusion of any Medicare and Private health insurance rebates .
2. Hospital Fees
• These include costs for your hospital admission and operating room use, charged on an hourly basis.
• Quotes are provided directly by the accredited hospitals where your surgeon operates at.
• If your procedure meets certain clinical criteria, private health insurance may cover some or all of these fees, especially if the surgery qualifies under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS).
• Our staff will guide you through obtaining this quote.
3. Anaesthetist Fees
• If general anaesthesia is required, a specialist anaesthetist (FRANZCA-accredited) will be involved.
• They charge separately and will provide their own hourly rate quote.
• Again, we’ll assist you in connecting with them to obtain the necessary details.
• You do not have to source an anaesthetist; we have set specialist anaesthetist who work with your surgeon on designated dates.
4. Other Incidental Costs
• These may include:
o Medications
o Post-surgery garments
o Travel or hotel stays (especially if you're coming from outside the Perth metropolitan area)
Important Information and Disclaimers:
• Any surgical or non-surgical procedure carries risks.
• Individual outcomes, results, experience and recovery times vary based on individual’s genetics, environmental factors, diet, exercise, sun protection, smoking and general health. Individual’s outcomes are only relevant for that individual and they do not necessarily reflect or guarantee the same outcome for another individual given the same treatment.
• The information provided is general and educational in nature.
• It does not constitute medical advice nor replace consultation with a qualified health professional.
• We encourage all patients to seek a second opinion and consult their general practitioner for a referral before engaging in a surgical and non-surgical consultation with us.
Still have questions?
Contact us to arrange your consultation with Dr Imani.
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