Mole Removal NYC

Numerous people seek medical care to have a mole removed. Scheduling a mole removal consultation to review the risks and benefits is crucial. During the appointment, they will discuss concerns you may have, provide answers to any questions you might ask, provide further information, discuss your medical history, and give post-operative instructions. When selecting a physician, it is advisable to opt for either a board-certified dermatologist or a plastic surgeon for such procedures. A board-certified dermatologist has the expertise to assess if a mole requires removal for medical purposes and, if situated in a cosmetically significant area, may recommend a board-certified plastic surgeon for the removal.

If you are looking for a dermatology practice in Manhattan for a mole check or to have a growth removed, please phone Dr. Jaliman in New York City at 212-517-8855 to schedule a visit. She uses the best techniques and methods for mole removal to ensure optimal results. Her staff will take pre- and post-operative photos so that you can see the outcomes. The cost of the procedure will be discussed in detail.

What is a mole?

A nevus is the medical term used to describe a mole. It consists of melanocytes located beneath the skin surface. Typically, these growths are benign and pose no harm. As a general guideline, if the mole is smaller than a pencil eraser, it is usually considered harmless. However, there are certain warning signs to be aware of in its appearance. For instance, if a mole is asymmetrical, has an irregular border, jagged edges, or an unusual shape, exhibits a variation of colors and changes, or sizes larger than 6 mm, it may warrant medical attention. Symptoms such as bleeding or itching are an additional warning indicator. In such cases, a biopsy of the patient is often necessary for further evaluation. If a patient has many nevi and flat moles, then they may require mole mapping and extra vigilance because they are at higher risk than others of skin cancer.

What is mole removal?

Certain individuals opt to have a visually unappealing mole removed to improve their self-confidence. Although it may not be medically necessary, some individuals discover that they desire the removal of their mole for cosmetic purposes. This outpatient procedure is remarkably straightforward.

How is a mole removal performed?

The skin is injected with a small needle and anesthesia. A small amount of local anesthetic is used. There is no need for oral pain medicine. Once the skin is completely numbed, after a few minutes the mole is surgically excised. One type of technique or the other is used. The doctor needs to decide depending on many different reasons. A growth in some areas of the face or body is easier to remove. On the nose, for example, it is usually shaved initially. It can either be shaved off the surface, in which case there are no stitches. If the mole is deep, it may be necessary to make a deeper incision and suture the skin. Dermatologists use these techniques all the time for a variety of moles anywhere on the skin.

Will the mole be sent for a biopsy?

Following the removal of the mole, it will be forwarded to the laboratory for testing purposes. The mole will undergo a pathologic examination and be analyzed under a microscope for a diagnosis. Sometimes the cells are abnormal or even malignant. In the case of malignancy or skin cancer, like malignant melanoma, additional treatment will be necessary.

Will I lose hair from a biopsy on the scalp?

A shave biopsy performed on the scalp does not result in hair loss. Although there might be a slight reduction in hair growth if a small growth is removed and stitched on the scalp, it will not be easily noticeable. You also have the option to switch the side of your scalp where you part your hair to conceal any hair loss.

How long do the stitches remain?

Stitches usually remain for 11 days if they are placed on the body's skin. They stay only 5 to 7 days if they are on the face. This is done to prevent unnecessary scarring and marking of the sutures. If the deeper layers of the skin were sewn with deep sutures, these would dissolve underneath the skin.

Can sutures be left for too long?

If the sutures remain in place for an extended period, they may become challenging to remove due to the skin growing over them, or they may even cause track marks on the skin. If you are unable to return to your doctor's office or the initial surgical location, you have the option to visit a walk-in clinic for suture removal.

Does the wound need special care?

It's important to properly care for the surgical site by cleaning the wound with rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide and then applying either Aquaphor ointment or a topical antibiotic ointment. Ensure that the wound is properly covered.

Is there pain associated with this procedure?

These minor surgical procedures are typically painless and do not cause any discomfort for the majority of patients.

Can I take a shower right after the surgery?

It is recommended to wait 48 hours following the surgery before taking a shower. In case you need to shower, there are specific waterproof bandages that can be used. The most recommended one is Duoderm Extra Thin, which can be found at our office. Our team will place the bandage, teach you the way to apply it, and explain the post-operative process and instructions.

Can I go into the sun right after surgery?

Refraining from exposing yourself to the sun for a few weeks following surgery is advisable. When you decide to venture out in the sun, it is crucial to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30-50. In case the surgical area is located on the body, you may opt to utilize sun-protective clothing. If the surgery is on the face, consider wearing a hat with a brim that is 2 inches wide.

Can I resume my activities right after this procedure?

For the best outcomes, it is advisable to refrain from engaging in vigorous physical activity during the week following the excision. This may lead to bleeding or potentially result in the sutures becoming undone. There is little downtime.

What is the mole removal recovery?

Depending upon the size and location of the removal, the majority of patients resume their usual routine and regular activities, including work the day after, refraining from strenuous physical exertion and adhering to the postoperative guidelines. We rarely see a problem or complication.

Is there a mole removal cream?

A mole or nevus cannot be eliminated using a mole removal cream. It is important to undergo a surgical removal procedure performed by surgeons trained in plastic surgery or dermatology. These professionals have the skills and training to provide you with the best outcome.

Are there any side effects to Mole Removal?

Bruising, swelling, and inflammation may occur on the surgical side. The symptoms are expected to be resolved promptly.

Can there be any color changes at the surgical site?

Sometimes, the skin at the surgical site may undergo a healing process that results in a lighter or darker shade compared to the surrounding skin. Your MD can provide advice about this condition.

Can I use products in the area?

Please refrain from using strong acids and other irritating products on the surgical site until it is completely healed. You may apply sunscreen and makeup to conceal the area.

Are there scar bandages I can wear to improve healing?

There is a choice of scar products available for you to select, including silicone bandages, gels, and scar sticks, depending upon the locations of the scars. You can order them online or buy them in a pharmacy in person from their reviews on Yelp or ask your physicians and healthcare professionals for their opinions. They can be used once the sutures are removed, and they do improve the look of the scars.

Is there scarring associated with mole removal procedures?

Whenever an incision is made in the skin, there will inevitably be some form of a scar. However, if the surgical procedure is carried out by a skilled specialist with experience, the resulting scar will be minimal.

Can a laser help improve scars?

Several laser treatments might be required to blend a scar into the surrounding skin.

Can a depressed scar be fixed?

An injection of hyaluronic acid such as with Juvaderm or Restylane can fill a depressed scar. These are FDA-approved dermal fillers. They are safe and effective and add volume to a sunken area. Sometimes it requires a series of injections, This is an in-office procedure. This treatment stimulates collagen production.

Do I need follow-up appointments?

To ensure optimal patient care, we highly advise scheduling follow-up appointments, to monitor everyone. We want to make certain that the area has healed well and there are no complicating issues. Many factors contribute to the healing process, including the skill of the surgeon, method of removal, suture method, and postoperative care. We also want to make sure that after the sutures are removed, the right scar bandages are used and, if needed, specific lasers are used to blend the scar into the surrounding tissue. This is to ensure that the beauty of your skin is preserved.

Does insurance cover a cosmetic mole removal?

Unfortunately, a cosmetic mole removal is not covered by insurance. Only suspicious looking moles are covered by insurance.