Mole RemovalMoles are a common type of growth on the skin. They often appear as small brown spots and are caused by clusters of pigmented cells. Moles can develop anywhere on your body, including your scalp, armpits and between your fingers and toes. Moles are usually removed if they are thought to be cancerous but they can also be removed for cosmetic or comfort reasons.

Mole removal is usually a minimally invasive procedure with little discomfort and a quick healing time. There are some mole removal care tips to consider so that you decrease your risk for developing a noticeable scar or an infection after the procedure.

Bandages: After a mole removal, the treated area should be covered with a bandage. For the first week to two weeks, the area will need to be cleaned and the bandage changed once or twice per day. Keeping the wound covered and dry will help keep it from becoming infected.

Ointment: If your method of mole removal required stiches, you will need to keep the wound moist with antibiotic ointment during recovery. It is important to avoid having a scab grow over the stitches, so keeping the area moist with ointment until you have your stitches removed4-7 days later.

Scabbing: Over the first week or two after mole removal (or beginning after you’ve had your stitches removed), your skin will begin to form a scab. It’s essential that you continue to cover this area with a bandage and don’t pick at the scab. Let the scab fall off naturally. This will decrease your chances of visible scarring and infection.

Follow-up: You may need to return for a follow-up visit with Dr. Holy to check the progress of your healing or to have stitches removed. It’s important to keep all follow-up appointments.

Contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology immediately if the following should occur during your recovery:

  • Fever
  • Puss coming from your wound
  • Worsening redness, pain or swelling at your wound site
  • Your wound will not stop bleeding

Your individual mole removal care instructions may vary slightly depending on the method of removal used by Dr. Holy. To learn more about mole removal or to schedule a skin evaluation in Phoenix, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com.