Mole Or Nevus Excision

What is a mole or nevus?

A mole is a growth found on your skin. A nevus is a type of mole. Most people have at least one mole. You may have been born with them or they may have appeared with age. Moles can be different shapes, sizes, and colors. Most moles are round or oval shaped. They are often brown or black in color, but can be flesh colored, pink, and red. They may be flat, raised, smooth, or rough. Some moles may have hairs that grow out of them. Most moles are harmless but some may be, or become, cancer.

What is mole excision and why may I need it?

Mole excision is surgery done to remove your mole. You may need to have your mole removed to check for cancer cells. People often choose to have their mole removed because they do not like how it looks. Moles may be removed if they cause symptoms such as tenderness, redness, and pain. Symptoms may occur when shaving, wearing jewelry, and during body movements. You may also have your mole removed to prevent infection and stop its growth.

What happens during mole excision?

Your caregiver will clean the area of your skin where the mole will be removed. A shot of anesthesia medicine may be given to numb your skin and decrease pain during surgery. Your caregiver may also use liquid nitrogen (gas) to freeze and numb your skin. Your mole may be shaved off or cut out. A surgical knife, biopsy (skin sample) tool, curette, or scissors may be used. Once your mole is removed, your caregiver may use stitches to close your skin. The removed mole may be sent to a lab for tests.

What happens after mole excision?

Medicine to prevent infection may be put on your skin. Your surgery site (wound) may then be covered with a bandage. Your caregiver may change your bandage if it becomes soaked with blood. When your caregiver says it is OK, you will be able to go home.

What are the risks of having my mole excised?

You may have an allergic reaction to the medicine used during your surgery. After your surgery, your wound may bleed more than expected and you may get an infection. You may have swelling and changes in the color of your skin where your mole was removed. You may have fluid or pus that drains from your wound. A scar may form in the area where your mole was removed. Even after surgery, your mole may grow back. If you choose not to have your mole removed and it is cancer, the cancer may spread.

How can I decrease my risk for new moles, and care for the ones I have?

• Do not spend a lot of time in the sun. The ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun increases your risks for moles.
  
  
• Do wear sunscreen every time you go out into the sun.
  
  
• Do wear clothing that will protect your skin from the sun’s UV light.
  
  
• Do look for new moles on your skin once a month. Know what your regular birthmarks and moles look like. Moles on your skin should be watched closely for changes. Tell your caregiver if the look of your birthmarks or moles changes.
  
  
• Do talk to your caregiver about what skin care products can be used to cover your mole.

When should I call my caregiver?

Call your caregiver if:

• Your mole, or the area around it is painful, itchy, or swollen.
  
  
• Your mole gets larger, changes color, or look different than it normally does.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition, treatment, or care.

When should I seek immediate help?

Seek care immediately if:

• The area around your mole is red and warm.
  
  
• There is blood or pus coming from the mole.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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