Moles are one of the most common skin blemishes. They appear on the skin as raised moles, flat moles and skin tags. Most moles are harmless and can typically be left alone unless they are found in more prominent areas of the skin, such as the face. Unfortunately, moles can also be a sign of skin cancer (such as atypical moles) or may raise your risks for developing skin cancer in the future, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Regardless of whether mole removal is cosmetic or medical, there are several treatment options available.
Shaving
One method for mole removal is a shave excision. During this procedure, a sharp blade is used to cut raised moles even with the surface. This will remove the mole from the skin but does not remove all of the mole cells from the area. Without complete removal, the mole can grow back and as such is not recommended for moles that are cancerous or pre-cancerous.
Electrocautery
Electrocautery can also be used for mole removal. Electrocautery uses high-frequency electrical current to cut through soft tissue on the body. As the instrument burns the mole tissue, it automatically seals off blood vessels, resulting in a less invasive surgery. Up to three treatments may need to be performed for full results to be seen.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy may also be used to remove moles from the body. In this procedure, the mole is frozen using liquid nitrogen or argon gas. The extreme cold kills the tissues of the mole. According to the Radiological Society of North America, the death of the mole tissue activates the white blood cells, which go to work removing the dead tissue from the body, resulting in the disappearance of the mole.
Excision
Excision is the most invasive form of mole removal and is typically reserved for removing moles that are cancerous or pre-cancerous. During an excision, a sharp blade is used to not only remove the mole itself but also some of the surrounding tissue. Removing the surrounding tissue ensures that all mole cells are removed, reducing the risk that the mole will return.
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