Skin surgery for suspicious moles

Moles that change in size, shape or colour, or that look different from your other moles, may need surgical removal to exclude melanoma or other skin cancers. Removing the entire mole allows accurate diagnosis and, in many cases, completes treatment at the same time.

When mole surgery is recommended

Surgery may be advised if a mole:

• Shows asymmetry, border irregularity or colour variation
• Is enlarging or evolving over time
• Has new symptoms such as itching, bleeding or crusting
• Is an atypical or changing mole with concerning features

Type of surgery used

Most suspicious moles are treated with an excision biopsy. The mole and a narrow margin of surrounding skin are removed under local anaesthetic and the wound is closed with stitches.

The specimen is examined under the microscope to determine whether the mole is benign, atypical or malignant and whether it has been fully removed.

Aftercare and further treatment

You will receive guidance on caring for the wound and when to have stitches removed. A scar will be present but usually fades over time. If melanoma or another skin cancer is confirmed, a wide local excision or additional treatment may be recommended.

Regular long term skin surveillance and full skin checks are often advised if you have had a suspicious mole removed.

If you are concerned about a mole and think it may require surgical assessment, please arrange a consultation via the contact page.