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Mole Removal Procedure Overview

Some moles are simply marvelous. Bombshells like Marilyn Monroe and Cindy Crawford made their moles into verifiable fashion accessories, redefining the definition of beauty. However, not every mole is as aesthetically pleasing as those featured on the faces of stars.

Many individuals have a prominently featured mole that is quite undesirable and can detract from their naturally beautiful features. Triple-board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Leo Lapuerta offers cosmetic mole removal for Houston, Pearland, and Katy patients who are bothered by an unsightly or bothersome mole or a mole that is potentially cancerous or has been identified as such.

  • Review from K. M.
  • Source: Google
  • Nov 16, 2018
I had an in-office procedure today that I was very nervous about every since I booked the appointment. It went perfectly. Dr. Lapuerta was amazing!! He numbed the working area so well that I didn't even feel a thing. Literally. He's kind of my hero right now. Also, Shelby was wonderful in the procedure room, she made me feel so comfortable and answered all of my questions. Great team and staff, everyone was smiling and helped calmed my nerves! I highly recommend Dr. Lapuerta and his team.

What is a Mole Removal?

Mole removal is a procedure to completely remove a mole while leaving the skin healthy and smooth, without the appearance of any significant scarring. Dr. Lapuerta recommends that patients who desire mole removal consult with a dermatologist first to ensure that the mole in question is non-cancerous.

While a dermatologist can remove the mole, certain moles may require a cosmetic approach to avoid irregular lines, scarring, and skin discoloration. That is why it is best to opt for cosmetic mole removal from Dr. Lapuerta, especially when the mole in question is large, bumpy, or located on an area of the body that is visible to others.

What Types of Moles Can Be Removed?

Any type of mole can be safely removed by a professional. The first step is to find a trusted doctor to assess and advise which removal procedure will be best.

  • – Shallow moles are typically removed by a shaving method, with no need for stitches. This procedure cuts the mole off at skin level with a scalpel.
  • – Larger moles may require excision, or cutting the mole out of the skin with or without stitches, depending on how deep the mole is embedded in the skin.

If the doctor finds a mole suspicious, they may perform a biopsy or remove it and have the tissue examined to determine if it is cancerous. Other skin marks aren’t considered as moles even though people may refer to them that way, such as birthmarks and keratoses, which are pre-cancerous spots. These marks may be treated in a different way than moles.

Ideal Mole Removal Candidates

As stated above, patients interested in cosmetic mole removal in Houston must first consult with a dermatologist to determine if the mole is in any way cancerous. The patient’s health is always Dr. Lapuerta’s first concern, and if the mole appears cancerous, it is essential to get treatment from an expert.

If the mole is determined to be cancer-free, then the ideal mole removal candidate is an individual with an unsightly mole they would like to have removed. Patients should also be in good physical health and have realistic expectations about the results of the mole removal surgery. That is why it is essential for the patient to sit down for a consultation with Dr. Lapuerta. During the consultation, Dr. Lapuerta will examine the mole and partner with the patient in order to determine the best treatment method to get the desired results.

Mole Removal Technique

There are a few methods that can be used in removing a mole. Factors such as depth, size, and location will help determine the most effective removal method. During a consultation, Dr. Lapuerta will examine the mole, get the patient’s full medical history, and discuss the desired results of the mole removal procedure. This allows Dr. Lapuerta to partner with the patient to help them achieve their goals.

Shaving or Laser Treatment

For moles that are flush to the skin, surgery may not be necessary. Instead, Dr. Lapuerta may be able to remove the mole using a simple shaving technique or a laser treatment. This is a simple outpatient procedure that can completely remove the appearance of the mole on the skin, with no stitches required. 

Mole Removal Surgery

For deep-seated moles, excision is the only way to remove it safely and effectively. During this process, the doctor will cut away the mole along with a small border of skin that surrounds it. Sutures are placed deep within the excision so that a clean, thin scar will be all that remains. In time, the scar should fade, leaving the skin that was once hidden by the mole looking healthy and smooth.

What to Expect During Mole Removal Procedure

Mole removal is a short procedure, typically taking place in under an hour using a local anesthesia. Larger moles that are excised will require sutures, and in some cases, samples of the mole may be sent to the laboratory for further analysis and examination. The procedure itself should offer patients very little discomfort, save for some slight pressure. Dr. Lapuerta will aim to minimize scarring and always wants his patients to feel happy and confident in their results.

Risks in Mole Removal

Removing moles is a safe procedure when performed by a plastic surgeon, but there are risks as with any surgery. The main risk is for infection and scarring. Infection can occur if the area of mole removal is not properly cared for after surgery as it heals. This can also increase the risk for scarring.

Scarring will happen to a degree with nearly every mole removal, but it can be almost imperceptible when the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon. A professional will do a consultation and provide patients with a good idea of the expected scar that may result from the removal.

Other risks, such as nerve damage, are rare, especially when working with a certified plastic surgeon with experience and a solid reputation.

After Procedure

The treated area may feel a little discomfort, which typically goes away within a few days after the procedure. The skin will scab over and will heal within 2-3 weeks with the proper application of topical medications. Make sure to listen carefully to post-care instructions from Dr. Lapuerta, as following these instructions exactly can help minimize the appearance of scarring in the future.

Expected Cost of a Mole Removal

Costs vary from $150 to $500 per mole. The fee is based on the type of method used and other factors such as the mole size, depth, and location. If the mole is noncancerous, the treatment is considered cosmetic and therefore does not qualify with most insurance covers. If cancer is found within the mole, insurance will most likely cover some of the cost of the removal.

Contact Dr. Lapuerta’s office to schedule a consultation and receive an accurate price.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in procedures such as mole removal, facial fillers, and Botoxⓡ. He will sit down with you and discuss options for removing the mole as well as the mole removal cost and answer any questions you may have. Contact us at Look Younger to schedule a Consultation today, and find out how you can enjoy more self-confidence in the way you look.

PLAN YOUR PROCEDURE

  • Recovery Time
  • 1-2 Days
  • Average Procedure Time
  • 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
  • Post-op Follow-up
  • 1 Week
  • Procedure Recovery Location
  • Outpatient

MOLE REMOVAL FAQS

MOLE REMOVAL?
Most moles are unnoticeable and do not require removal. Obvious moles that are dark, bumpy or just simply irritating, are the ones primarily considered for removal. Those who are conscious about how they look may consider this quick cosmetic enhancement. Healthwise, any mole that changes in appearance, must be promptly checked to ensure that it is not cancerous.
HOW WILL THE SCAR LOOK?
Those who are concerned about scarring should consider seeking out a plastic surgeon as they understand the cosmetic approach to take. This is recommended especially to those who have larger moles. A plastic surgeon will focus on minimizing scarring as much as possible. Post-surgery care is especially important to create a natural, attractive outcome.
INSURANCE COVERAGE?
If the procedure is for cosmetic purposes, then it is unlikely that insurance will pay for the costs. Most cosmetic procedures are not valid for insurance coverage. If the mole is diagnosed as cancerous, insurance will most likely cover the removal. As soon as the mole is evaluated by the doctor, we will verify insurance to make certain of any coverage that may exist.
Leo Lapuerta Plastic Surgery