Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that appear on the face and other parts of the body. They are typically harmless, but in some cases, they may require removal for aesthetic or medical reasons. This guide will cover common types of moles on the face, when to be concerned about a mole, the available options for mole removal, and specific details about laser mole removal, including its advantages, suitability, and potential for recurrence.

Common Moles on the Face

Moles can vary significantly in appearance, and several types are commonly found on the face:

1. Junctional Nevi: These are flat moles that often appear as small, round, and uniform in colour. They develop where the epidermis meets the dermis, hence the name “junctional.”
2. Compound Nevi: These moles are slightly raised and can be light brown to dark brown in colour. They are a mix of cells in both the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin.
3. Intradermal Nevi: Typically flesh-coloured and dome-shaped, intradermal nevi are raised and can sometimes have hairs growing from them. They are located deeper within the dermis.
4. Seborrheic Keratoses: Although not true moles, these benign growths are often mistaken for moles. They appear as warty, pigmented lesions and can vary in colour from light brown to black.
5. Dysplastic Nevi: These are atypical moles that are larger and have irregular borders and varying colours. While they are generally benign, they may have a higher risk of becoming malignant, particularly in individuals with multiple dysplastic nevi.

When Should You Be Concerned About a Mole?

Most moles are benign and do not pose any health risk. However, it’s crucial to monitor moles for any changes that could indicate malignancy, particularly melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. The following features, often summarised as the ABCDEs of melanoma, are red flags:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other in shape or size.
• Border: The edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
• Colour: The mole has multiple colours or shades, including different tones of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
• Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can be smaller.
• Evolving: The mole changes in size, shape, or colour over time or begins to bleed, itch, or become tender.

If a mole exhibits any of these features, it is essential to seek evaluation by your GP or our team at CLNQ. Early detection of melanoma significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Options for Mole Removal on the Face

When it comes to mole removal on the face, several methods are available, each with its own set of benefits and considerations:

1. Shave Excision: This involves using a blade to shave the mole flush with the skin’s surface. It is often used for raised moles and usually leaves minimal scarring.
2. Surgical Excision: The mole is cut out, including a margin of surrounding tissue, which may require stitches. This method is typically used for moles suspected of being malignant or for those that are deeply embedded in the skin. The surgical mole excision is performed under local anaesthetic.
3. Laser Mole Removal: A concentrated beam of light is used to break down the mole’s pigment. This method is popular for its precision, minimal discomfort, and reduced risk of scarring, especially on the face.
4. Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and destroy the mole tissue. This method is more commonly used for small, superficial moles and skin lesions.
5. Electrosurgery: The mole is burned off using an electric current. This is often combined with curettage, where the mole is scraped off with a curette.

Why Is Laser Mole Removal on the Face Better for Appearance?

Laser mole removal has gained popularity, particularly for facial moles, due to its aesthetic advantages:

1. Precision: The laser can target the mole with high accuracy, leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. This precision is crucial for facial areas where cosmetic outcomes are particularly important.
2. Minimal Scarring: Because the laser works on the superficial layers of the skin, it reduces the likelihood of deep tissue damage and scarring, which is a significant concern for facial treatments.
3. Reduced Recovery Time: Laser removal typically involves less tissue damage, resulting in quicker healing and less downtime. Most patients can resume normal activities almost immediately.
4. Comfort: The procedure is generally less painful compared to surgical options, and the use of local anaesthesia ensures a comfortable experience.

At CLNQ, we offer CO2 laser mole removal for the face and body. The CO2 laser is a highly effective laser for mole removal and skin resurfacing. Our team of doctors perform the procedure under local anaesthetic.

What Moles Are Suitable for Laser Mole Removal on the Face?

Laser mole removal is best suited for certain types of moles:

1. Flat or Slightly Raised Moles: Junctional and compound nevi, which are either flat or slightly raised, respond well to laser treatment.
2. Lightly Pigmented Moles: The laser is particularly effective on moles that are more fleshy coloured rather than deeply pigmented.
3. Benign Moles: Moles that are confirmed to be benign and do not require deep tissue removal are ideal candidates for laser removal.

However, not all moles are suitable for laser removal:

• Deeply Embedded Moles: Moles that extend deep into the dermis or subcutaneous layers may not be fully removed by laser, leading to potential recurrence.
• Atypical or Suspicious Moles: Moles that have irregular features or are suspected of being malignant should be excised surgically to ensure complete removal and allow for histopathological examination.

Why Do Some Moles Need Excision?

While laser removal is effective for many moles, some require excision for the following reasons:

1. Malignancy Risk: Moles that exhibit signs of melanoma or other skin cancers need to be excised to ensure complete removal and to allow the tissue to be examined under a microscope.
2. Depth: Moles that are deeply embedded in the skin may not be fully removed by laser, necessitating surgical excision to prevent recurrence.
3. Size: Larger moles may be better suited for surgical removal, as it ensures that the entire mole is excised, reducing the likelihood of regrowth.

Can Moles Grow Back After Laser Mole Removal?

There is a possibility that a mole can grow back after laser removal, particularly if the mole was not completely destroyed or if it extended deeper into the skin layers than the laser reached. Recurrence is more likely in cases where only the superficial part of the mole was treated. However, regrowth is usually minor, and a repeat treatment can be effective.

How Much Is Laser Mole Removal on the Face?

The cost of laser mole removal on the face can vary widely depending on several factors:

• Number of Moles: The cost often increases with the number of moles being removed.
• Size and Complexity: Larger or more complex moles may require more time and higher costs.

At CLNQ, you will need an initial consultation with our doctors or plastic surgeons which is £100. The laser mole removal price is from £285 for a single mole and then increases for each subsequent mole.

Conclusion

Mole removal on the face is a common procedure, often performed for both cosmetic and medical reasons. Understanding the types of moles, the reasons for concern, and the various removal options can help individuals make informed decisions about their treatment. Laser mole removal offers significant benefits in terms of appearance, particularly on the face, due to its precision and minimal scarring. However, not all moles are suitable for this method, and in some cases, surgical excision may be necessary to ensure complete and safe removal. Book your consultation with our team in Manchester or Cheshire today to discuss your concerns with moles on the face and options for treatment.