Cosmetic
Mole &
Skin Tag
Removal

So we all know that cosmetic physicians can help correct the signs of aging and sun-damage. But what we don't know is that there is a much more common skin problem that affects all age groups and can, in some situations, even lead to issues of poor self-esteem - MOLES & SKIN TAGS!

These are just normal hereditary things that occur on the skin but because of 'where' they are, how 'big' they are or 'how many' of them there are, they can make you feel very conscious that they are there. I have heard many a tale of people even shying away from having their photo taken because they have moles on their face! This is very sad and I have to say that removing moles, skin tags and other raised things on the skin is one of the most satisfying procedures to do.

The Scientific Stuff

OK so let's get the scientific stuff out of the way first.

There are many different things that can be present in or on the skin. Moles come in many shapes, colours and sizes and they can be present on any area of the body. It is important to get your skin checked for abnormal moles by your GP, skin cancer doctor or Consultant Dematologist every 6 to 12 months. Once your skin has been checked, normal raised bumps on the skin may be removed by a cosmetic doctor very simply with no down time.

The Good Stuff

OK let's skip now to the good stuff.

Cosmetic removal of moles, skin tags and other bumps on the skin is a lot different from medical removal by your general practitioner or skin cancer doctor. It does not involve any cutting into the skin or stitching of the skin. The raised area is removed using a 'radiofrequency' device. This has various attachments that can 'shave' the tissue gradually and precisely until all of the raised mole or skin tag has been shaved completely off the surface of the skin. The machine cauterises the tissue as it goes, preventing any bleeding after the treatment is done.

What You Need To Know

If you are thinking about cosmetically removing a bump on the skin it is advisable to get these areas checked by your GP, skin cancer doctor or Dermatologist to make sure they are not abnormal. Once this is done, you can see us to check if the area is suitable for cosmetic removal.

What I Need To Tell You

Yes this procedure does involve the use of a tiny needle to inject the bump with local anaesthetic. Once this is done the area is completely numb and the rest of the procedure is very simple. The bump is slowly and completely shaved off the skin and ointment is then placed on the wound and covered with a small bandaid. This area heals fully over a few days and there is virtually no sign that the bump was ever there. How simple is that!

The Aftercare

How you look after the remaining wound is extremely important and directly affects the result you will get. If you follow the instructions given to you after the procedure, you will have the best possible outcome and will not be able to see where the mole was. You will be given an aftercare kit containg an ointment called 'Bactroban' that is an antiseptic, antibacterial ointment, which must be placed on the wound regularly every day after the procedure. Depending on the area treated this may also be covered with a spot bandaid that is replaced, along with the ointment, as often as necessary. If used, the bandaid needs to be covering the wound all the time, even when showering and sleeping. Your cosmetic practitioner will let you know how many days you need to do this.

If multiple raised bumps are removed in a large area, you may be advised to apply Vaseline ointment instead of Bactroban and not to bother with bandaids.