Mole, skin tag, keratosis and wart removal by a doctor with plasma, CO2 or RF, and histology when needed
A dermatologist examines every lesion first to identify what it is. Ordinary moles, seborrhoeic keratoses, skin tags and warts are removed with plasma, CO2 or radiofrequency in 15–30 minutes. Any mole with suspicious features is excised whole and sent for histopathology.
Examine first, then choose the method
Many small growths on the skin look alike but must be handled differently. Seborrhoeic keratoses are rough, raised brown bumps that increase with age. Skin tags are soft, hanging growths on the neck, underarms and eyelids. Warts are caused by the HPV virus and can spread. Moles (melanocytic naevi) are clusters of pigment cells that may sit shallow or deep, and some are skin cancers that must be fully excised and sent for examination. Dr. Kate examines every lesion with a dermatoscope first, to identify its type and choose the method that removes it completely with the least marking. Lasering a suspicious mole without examining it is something we do not do.
Use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry of shape, Border that is irregular, Colour that varies within one lesion, Diameter wider than 6 mm, and Evolving, meaning a change in size, colour or elevation over a few months. Also any mole that itches, bleeds or forms a sore that does not heal, or a new mole appearing after the age of 40, especially on the palms, soles or under the nails, which are common sites in Asian people
Methods and what they suit
| Method | Suits | Wound | Scab clears |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plasma (Plexr) | Skin tags, keratoses, flat superficial moles, small dark spots, small warts | Vaporises a thin layer of skin, no bleeding | 4–7 days |
| CO2 laser | Raised moles, thick keratoses, warts, small fatty lumps | Cuts and seals bleeding at the same time, with fine depth control | 7–10 days |
| Radiofrequency (RF) | Stalked skin tags, medium raised moles | Cut with a heated wire, smooth wound | 5–10 days |
| Surgical excision | Deep moles, moles over 5–6 mm, and every suspicious mole | Straight incision, sutured, specimen sent for histology | Sutures removed at 5–14 days |
| Cryotherapy | Multiple warts, flat keratoses | Blisters then dries | 7–14 days |
On the day
How the wound heals
Worth knowing before you decide
- Deep moles removed with laser or plasma may show 10–20 per cent pigment return, so a repeat session or excision may be needed
- Every method leaves a small mark: a shallow dent, pink or darker patch that fades over 2–6 months
- Warts can return from virus in the surrounding skin, so a review is booked at 4–6 weeks
- Tell the doctor beforehand about any history of keloids, blood thinners, uncontrolled diabetes or pregnancy
- Do not remove moles or warts yourself with thread, corrosive creams or herbal remedies, which cause more infection and scarring
Prices
| Dermatoscope mole check By a dermatologist, every lesion | Free |
| Skin tags, keratoses, small dark spots, per lesion Anaesthetic, plasma or RF, aftercare ointment. Lower price for multiple lesions | [ ] |
| Raised mole with CO2 laser, per lesion Anaesthetic, laser, dressing, including a second treatment if pigment returns | [ ] |
| Excision with histology Injected anaesthetic, excision by a doctor, histopathology fee, suture removal | [ ] |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does mole removal hurt? How long is recovery?
Numbing cream or injected anaesthetic is used, so you feel almost nothing during the procedure. Afterwards there is slight tightness and you can work as normal straight away. Scabs clear in 5–10 days, and excision leaves a sutured wound for 1–2 weeks.
Will mole removal leave a scar?
Every method leaves a small mark, usually a pink patch or shallow dent that blends with the skin over 2–6 months. The size and depth of the mole matter more than the method. The doctor tells you the mark to expect for each lesion before treatment.
Can a mole come back?
Most shallow moles, skin tags and keratoses do not return in the same spot. Deep moles show pigment return in 10–20 per cent of cases, which can be retreated. Warts can return from virus in the surrounding skin and need follow-up.
Why send the specimen for histology?
A mole that looks abnormal to the eye or under the dermatoscope must be confirmed by histopathology as not being skin cancer. Destroying it by cautery leaves no tissue to examine and may miss the diagnosis, so we choose excision whenever there is doubt.
Can several lesions be removed in one visit?
Yes. Dozens of skin tags and keratoses can be removed in a single 30–60 minute visit. Several large moles may be split across visits to make wound care easier.
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