Moles (Mole Removal)
Moles are an overgrowth of pigment cells in the skin. Depending on the numbers of cells contained in the mole and how deep, they may be dark in colour or the same colour as the surrounding skin.
Previously, cutting and stitching was the only technique available to remove moles. This often leaves a scar worse than the mole. Traditionally diathermy (localised heating of the skin) could not be used because of the damage to the surrounding areas.
Radio - Surgery
Radio-surgery uses the latest in diathermy technology, the 'Ellman Surgitron'. This is so precise it can be used to literally shave the mole away until it is smooth and flat to the skin surface.
This highly specialised piece of equipment can do this and not leave a scar, because the radio frequency energy it produces, does not spread into the surrounding tissues.
Technique
This technique is mostly used on cosmetic moles, where there is no concern regarding cancer. However, if there is concern about a mole, it is possible to get a sample taken for analysis by a pathologist. Removing the mole is quite a simple and quick process.
The only limitation of this radio-surgery technique for mole removal is that the mole must be above skin level. It will not work on flat moles, as they would leave a depressed scar.
Local - Anaesthetic
The skin is first anaesthetised with local anaesthetic and the outline of the mole marked with a marker pen. Once the area is numb the mole is simply shaved away until it is flush with the skin. The Ellman seals off the blood vessels as it shaves away the mole so there is no bleeding and because the skin is not cut there is no suturing required.
Post Treatment
Immediately after the mole is removed the skin looks a little yellow in colour. A dressing is applied with an ointment and a simple bandaid. Aftercare is carried out at home by the client, by simply removing the bandaid before having a shower, washing the area with ordinary soap and water and then reapplying the ointment and bandaid. There is no discomfort or pain.
Final - Appearance
The area where the mole was removed usually dries out in about 10 days but can take up to two weeks for large moles. Once healed the new skin is red and that redness may take four to six weeks to settle. The final appearance may be just like the surrounding skin or may be slightly paler.
Removing Moles Technique
When removing moles with this technique, it is always best to err on the side of caution by not shaving away too much. It is easy to go back and shave a little more (which is free of charge) but if too much is taken, it cannot be replaced and a depressed area of skin will result. For this reason we would always recommend using trained specialists such as ourselves to carry out mole removal procedures.
Please note that sadly Medicare does not cover removal of moles for cosmetic purposes.
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