Mole Removal - Moles are basically an overgrowth of pigment cells. Depending on the numbers of pigment cells contained in the mole and how deep, they may be dark in colour or the same colour as the surrounding skin.

Diathermy      Previously, cutting and stitching was the only technique available to remove moles and it often left a scar worse than the mole. Traditionally diathermy could not be used because of the damage to the surrounding skin.    Radio - Surgery   Radio-surgery uses the latest in diathermy technology, the Ellman Surgitron to literally shave the mole away until it is smooth with the skin surface. The Ellman can do this and not leave a scar because the Radio frequency energy does not spread into the surrounding tissues causing damage to normal tissue.    Technique   The only limitation of the Ellman for mole removal is that the mole must be above skin level. This technique will not work on flat moles as it will leave a depressed scar. This technique is mostly used on cosmetic moles, not moles where there is a concern regarding cancer. However, if there is concern about a mole it is possible to get a sample of the mole for analysis by a pathologist. Removing the mole is quite a simple and quick process.   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.        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 done at home 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 skin where the mole was 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 going too deep. It is easy to go back and take 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.    Medicare does not cover removal of moles for cosmetic purposes. The cost is $122 for one mole to be removed and $92.50 per mole if two or more are being removed. For a large number of moles in close proximity to each other a lower fee may be negotiated.    Back to Treatments...