Moles are clusters of cells, which can appear on the skin anywhere on the body. Most moles are not dangerous (benign). They can come in different shapes, sizes and colors, with some being present at birth or others appearing over the years. Mole removal surgery is chosen by many people each year for the safe removal of moles which are either in prominent positions on the face for provide discomfort from being rubbed on clothing or caught when shaving.

For those who decide to remove their moles, the doctor will discuss all the options available to them.

Excision With Stitches

The area to be treated is cleansed thoroughly and numbed. The mole is cut out with a small border around it. The size of the border depends on the risk factor of the mole.

Stitches close the wound. They can either be placed inside the wound, beneath the skin if the mole was particularly deep or on the surface of the skin. Stitches inside the wound are dissolved into the body where as those on the surface must be removed at a later date.

Eskata Topical Solution

Dr. Marta is pleased to offer ESKATA—the first and only FDA-approved topical solution for mole removal.

ESKATA is a quick, non-invasive, non-surgical procedure which can be used to remove moles. After treatment there are no bandages and you can return to your daily life. In many cases, two sessions are required for optimal treatment.

Excision With Cauterization

The area is cleaned thoroughly and numbed. The mole is shaved with a scalpel, until it is at skin level or perhaps slightly below. The shaven area is burned with an electrical device to stop the bleeding. In some cases a solution is used instead, but the effects are the same. An antibiotic cream, gel or solution is applied to the area. A bandage is used to cover the area.

Laser Mole Removal

Laser mole removal has become increasingly popular of the years. An intense beam of light is used to heat the cells forming the mole until they begin to break down. The cells are re-absorbed into the body.

This treatment is fast, effective with minimal chance of scarring as there is no cutting involved. However, it is not effective on some deeper moles, or raised moles because the light is not strong enough to penetrate deep enough.