Mole (Nevi) Removal Boston

What Is Mole Removal?

Mole removal is a procedure that removes a mole that is unwanted, frequently irritated, or concerning in appearance. For many patients, especially when a mole is on the face, the goal is not simply to remove it, but to do so with careful attention to the surrounding skin and the appearance of the final result.

The best technique depends on the mole’s size, depth, location, and characteristics. Common approaches include surgical excision and shave removal. If a mole looks suspicious, the removed tissue may also be sent for microscopic examination to check for abnormal or cancerous cells.

How Does the Mole Removal Procedure Work?

If a mole is bothersome, noticeable, or simply something you would prefer to have removed, the procedure is typically straightforward. Dr. Numa performs surgical mole removal as a simple outpatient procedure in his Boston office, with careful attention to both the removal itself and the appearance of the treated area.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Numa surgically excises the mole, and sutures may occasionally be placed depending on the individual case. When sutures are used, they can typically be removed approximately one week after the procedure.

For patients considering mole removal in Boston, this in-office approach offers a direct way to address unwanted moles while working with a facial plastic surgeon experienced in treating highly visible areas of the face.

Which Types of Moles May Need Evaluation or Removal?

Most moles are harmless, but a change in size, shape, color or texture could be indicative of a cancerous growth. Moles that have a higher-than-average chance of becoming cancerous include:

Congenital Nevi

Moles present at birth. The larger their size, the greater the risk for developing into a skin cancer.

Atypical Dysplastic Nevi

Irregularly shaped moles that are larger than average. They often appear to have dark brown centers with light, uneven borders.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCCs)

BCCs are abnormal, uncontrolled growths or lesions that arise in the skin’s basal cells, which line the deepest layer of the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin).

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCCs)

SCCs are an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells arising in the squamous cells, which compose most of the skin’s upper layer.

Higher Frequency of Moles

People with 50 or more moles are at a greater risk for developing a skin cancer. Patients whose mole removal reveals cancerous tissue may require additional repair of the treated area. Dr. Numa also performs skin cancer reconstruction for patients who need facial repair following skin cancer removal.

In some cases, abnormal moles may become painful, itchy, scaly or bleed. It’s important to keep an eye on your moles so that you can catch any changes early. We recommend doing a visual check of your body monthly, including all areas that don’t have sun exposure (such as the scalp, armpits or bottoms of feet).

Use the American Academy of Dermatology’s ABCDEs as a guide for assessing whether or not a mole may be becoming cancerous:

• Asymmetry: Half the mole does not match the other half in size, shape or color.
• Border: The edges of moles are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
• Color: The mole is not the same color throughout.
• Diameter: The mole is usually greater than 6 millimeters when diagnosed, but may also be smaller.
• Evolving: A mole or skin lesion that is different from the rest, or changes in size, shape, or color.

If any of these conditions occur, please make an appointment to see a doctor right away. Your doctor may recommend carrying out a biopsy of the mole to determine if it is or isn’t cancerous. From there the decision to surgically remove it will come in.

Surgical excision of moles is a simple outpatient procedure carried out in the office under local anesthesia. Occasionally, sutures are placed at the time of the excision, and these can be removed approximately one week following the procedure.

Who Is the Right Candidate for Nevi (Mole) Removal?

Mole removal may be appropriate for people who are bothered by the appearance or location of a mole, experience irritation or discomfort, or notice changes that should be evaluated by a doctor. Because moles can vary widely in appearance and significance, the reason for considering removal is not always purely cosmetic.

You may want to discuss mole removal with Dr. Numa if you have a mole that:

• Is in a highly visible area, such as the face or neck, and is an aesthetic concern.
• Becomes irritated, painful, itchy, scaly, or prone to bleeding.
• Has changed in size, shape, color, or texture.
• Has other features that make you concerned about whether it should be evaluated or removed.

Dr. Numa can evaluate the mole and help determine whether removal is appropriate based on your individual concerns and the characteristics of the mole.

What Is the Cost of Mole Removal in Boston?

The cost of mole removal in Boston varies from patient to patient, so there is no single price that applies to every procedure. Factors such as the mole’s size and location, the specifics of the removal, and whether a biopsy is recommended can all affect the overall cost.

During your consultation, Dr. Numa can evaluate the mole, discuss the appropriate approach, and provide pricing based on your individual treatment needs. This gives you a clear understanding of the expected cost before moving forward.

Mole Removal Before And After Results

Why Patients Choose Dr. William Numa for Mole Removal

When a mole is on the face or another highly visible area, choosing the right physician matters. Dr. William Numa is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Boston whose practice focuses on aesthetic and reconstructive procedures of the face and neck. His approach emphasizes meticulous technique and natural-looking results.

For patients considering plastic surgeon mole removal, Dr. Numa brings the perspective of a facial plastic surgeon who routinely works with delicate, highly visible areas. His Boston practice also offers personalized consultations so patients can discuss their concerns, understand whether removal is appropriate, and learn what to expect from the procedure.

Dr. Numa’s patient reviews include individuals who specifically describe having facial moles removed and being pleased with how inconspicuous the treated areas became afterward.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does a mole look different from melanoma?

A typical mole is often round or oval, fairly uniform in color, and remains relatively stable over time. Melanoma can look different from other moles or show changes in asymmetry, border, color, diameter, or appearance over time. Because melanoma cannot always be identified by appearance alone, a new, changing, unusual, itching, or bleeding mole should be evaluated by a doctor.

How risky is mole removal?

Mole removal is generally a straightforward procedure when performed by a qualified physician, but every procedure carries some risk. Dr. Numa performs surgical excision of moles as an outpatient procedure in his Boston office under local anesthesia. During a consultation, he can discuss the procedure and considerations specific to your mole and its location.

What kills moles permanently?

There is no recommended at-home product or remedy that should be used to “kill” a mole. Attempting to burn, cut, or otherwise remove a mole yourself can cause infection or scarring and may delay the diagnosis of a suspicious growth. If you want to know how to get rid of moles safely, the appropriate first step is to have the mole evaluated by a qualified medical professional.

Can I remove my mole permanently?

A mole can be surgically removed, but no procedure can guarantee that a mole will never return. If a mole grows back after removal, it should be evaluated by a doctor. Dr. Numa can determine whether surgical removal is appropriate based on the individual mole and your concerns.

Can a dark mole be removed?

Yes, dark moles can be removed, but color is also one of the characteristics doctors consider when evaluating a mole. A mole that becomes darker, develops multiple colors, or changes in size, shape, or appearance should be medically evaluated before removal. Dr. Numa can assess the mole and determine whether surgical removal is appropriate.