In the age of quick internet searches and an abundance of do-it-yourself tutorials, it’s tempting to believe that we can tackle just about any task at home. However, if there is one DIY that should never be attempted, it would be the removal of moles from your skin.
Moles, those often-small skin growths that can vary in size, shape, and colour, are typically harmless and can even add character to your appearance. However, when it comes to their removal, the stakes are higher than you might think. In this article, we delve into the world of DIY and professional mole removal and why, without a shadow of a doubt, seeking professional help is not just wise but crucial for your health and well-being.
What are Moles?
A mole, in the context of dermatology and human skin, is a common and usually benign skin growth or pigmented spot. These small, dark, or flesh-coloured growths are also known as nevi (singular: nevus). Moles can appear virtually anywhere on the body, and they are primarily composed of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives our skin, hair, and eyes their colour.
While most moles remain stable over time, some may change in size, colour, or shape. Any significant changes in a mole, such as sudden growth or irregular borders, should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
While most moles are benign, some may undergo changes that increase the risk of developing into melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer. It’s essential to monitor moles for any suspicious changes.
The Risks of DIY Mole Removal
While some individuals are drawn to the idea of DIY mole removal, it’s essential to consider the damage you could be doing to your gorgeous skin. Whereas investing in professional care is a safer and more reliable solution to removing unwanted moles. Here are a few major risks of DIY mole removal:
- Risk of Infection: Home-based procedures can lead to infections if not carried out under meticulously sterile conditions. DIY kits lack appropriate sterilisation tools, elevating the risk of complications.
- Potential Scarring: Inadequate mole removal techniques can result in unsightly scars, which may be more conspicuous than the original mole, diminishing the aesthetic outcome.
- Incomplete Eradication: DIY methods may fail to entirely eliminate the mole, allowing it to regrow or, in more severe cases, transform into a cancerous lesion if it was initially precancerous.
- Misjudgement and Misdiagnosis: Self-assessment can often lead to misjudgement, where a potentially perilous mole is dismissed as benign, or a benign mole is unnecessarily treated, exacerbating the situation.
The Importance of Professional Assessment
Having your moles assessed by a dermatologist or medical professional offers a multitude of compelling advantages:
- Specialised Knowledge: Medical doctors are trained in the field of skin health. Their extensive training equips them with a profound understanding of skin conditions, allowing them to discern subtle nuances and deviations in moles that might elude the untrained observer.
- Advanced Tools and Techniques: These professionals have access to specialised equipment and techniques designed for comprehensive mole examination. Dermatoscopes, for instance, magnify and illuminate moles, enabling a meticulous analysis that is pivotal for precise assessment.
- Distinguishing Between Benign and Malignant Moles: Professionals adeptly distinguish between benign and malignant moles by scrutinising characteristics such as asymmetry, border irregularity, colour variation, diameter, and changes over time. This comprehensive evaluation helps identify potential skin cancer risks.
Safe and Effective Mole Removal Procedures
Before mole removal, it’s crucial to ensure your comfort and minimise any potential pain or discomfort. To achieve this, you’ll receive numbing medicine, also known as anaesthetic. The administration of anaesthetic can take two forms:
- Topical Anaesthetic: Your provider may apply a numbing cream or gel directly to the skin’s surface. This topical anaesthetic temporarily desensitises the area, making it virtually painless.
- Local Anaesthetic Injection: In some cases, you may receive an injection of local anaesthetic directly at the surgical site. This method ensures profound numbing of the area and is often used for more invasive procedures.
When it comes to mole removal, two primary methods are commonly employed, each with its own set of advantages and considerations:
- Surgical Excision:
In this method, the doctor surgically removes the mole using a scalpel and the radiofrequency TIMED machine. It is typically employed when malignancy is suspected or for moles that require complete removal. After excision, the wound is carefully sutured and dressed to promote proper healing and minimise scarring.
- Shave Excision:
Shave excision is a less invasive approach where the doctor shaves off the mole from the skin’s surface using a specifically designed shave excision tool or the TIMED machine. This method is often preferred for raised, non-cancerous moles and generally results in minimal scarring. It offers a quicker recovery compared to surgical excision.
Choosing Restoration Medicine for Professional Mole Removal
Our medical professionals possess not only the expertise but also the compassion to ensure your mole removal experience is safe, precise, and tailored to your unique needs. We emphasise not just removal but a holistic approach to your skin’s well-being.
When you choose Restoration Medicine for your mole removal needs, you’re choosing a commitment to your skin’s health and your peace of mind. Say goodbye to the uncertainties of DIY mole removal, and say hello to a brighter, safer future for your skin.
Contact Restoration Medicine today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards mole removal that prioritises your health, safety, and lasting confidence. Your skin deserves nothing less.