Expert assessment and safe removal with minimal scarring

Mole Removal in London

Moles are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. Most are harmless, but some can change in size, shape, or colour, making it important to have them properly assessed by a qualified medical professional.

At her London practice, Dr Nicki Bystrzonowski offers mole removal for both medical and cosmetic reasons, using safe and precise surgical techniques that prioritise minimal scarring and natural healing. Each case begins with a detailed examination to determine the nature of the mole and the most suitable removal method.

As a specialist plastic surgeon, Dr Nicki combines medical accuracy with aesthetic sensitivity. Her approach ensures not only complete removal and peace of mind, but also excellent cosmetic results, especially for moles on the face or other visible areas.

What Is Mole Removal?

Mole removal is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic to remove a mole completely from the skin. The removed tissue can be sent for histopathology analysis, which provides a laboratory report confirming whether the mole is benign (non-cancerous) or requires further attention.

Mole removal can be performed for several reasons:

  • Medical: if the mole has changed in appearance, bleeds, or causes discomfort.

  • Cosmetic: to improve appearance or comfort, particularly on the face, neck, or body areas where friction occurs.

Dr Nicki uses refined plastic-surgical techniques such as shave excision, elliptical excision, or laser removal (depending on the mole type and location). Every treatment is performed with precision, ensuring healthy surrounding tissue is preserved and scarring is kept to a minimum.

Key Information

DetailSummary
Procedure Time20–45 minutes
AnaestheticLocal anaesthetic
Hospital StayDay case (outpatient)
Recovery TimeMinimal; most patients resume normal activities immediately
ScarringSmall and discreet; fades with time
Results VisibleImmediate removal; area heals within 1–2 weeks
LongevityPermanent; recurrence is rare if fully excised
Follow-UpHistopathology results (if sent) usually within 5–7 days

How Mole Removal Works

Consultation and Assessment

Every procedure starts with a detailed consultation with Dr Nicki Bystrzonowski, who examines the mole using a dermatoscope, a magnifying tool that helps assess colour, border, and structure. If removal is recommended, Dr Nicki explains the best technique, what to expect, and how to care for the area after treatment.

Anaesthetic and Preparation

A small amount of local anaesthetic is injected to numb the skin completely. The procedure is quick and painless, typically lasting less than half an hour.

The Procedure

Depending on the type and location of the mole, Dr Nicki may:

  • Shave excise it (removing the surface portion flush with the skin), or

  • Surgically excise it (removing the full lesion and closing the skin with fine sutures).

The removed tissue is sent for laboratory analysis if there is any concern or uncertainty about the diagnosis.

Recovery and Healing

A small dressing is applied for protection. Healing usually takes 7–10 days, with minimal scarring. Dr Nicki provides full aftercare guidance and reviews the area to ensure smooth healing and a good cosmetic outcome.

Long-Term Results

Once healed, the skin appears clear and flat. Scars fade gradually, often becoming almost invisible over time. Mole recurrence is rare when removal is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I have a mole checked or removed?
You should have a mole checked if it changes in size, shape, or colour, or if it starts to itch, bleed, or become irritated. While most moles are harmless, any new or changing lesion should be assessed by a qualified doctor. Dr Nicki examines each mole carefully using a dermatoscope and advises whether removal is necessary for medical or cosmetic reasons.
Is mole removal painful?
No. Mole removal is performed under local anaesthetic, meaning the area is completely numb throughout the procedure. Patients usually feel only light pressure but no pain. Mild tenderness afterward is normal and settles quickly.
Will the mole be tested after removal?
Yes — if there is any concern about the mole’s appearance or if it’s being removed for medical reasons, it will be sent for histopathology testing. This provides a detailed laboratory report confirming whether the mole is benign or requires further follow-up.
Will there be a scar?
All mole removals leave a small mark, but scars are typically minimal. Dr Nicki uses fine sutures and plastic-surgical techniques to ensure smooth healing and the best possible cosmetic outcome. Over time, scars fade and often become barely noticeable.
How long does it take to heal?
Healing usually takes 7–10 days. A small dressing may be used for a few days to protect the site. The area may appear slightly pink at first, then gradually fade as new skin forms. Full scar maturation can take several months but is subtle in appearance.
Can facial moles be removed safely?
Yes. Facial moles are routinely and safely removed using precise, tissue-sparing techniques designed to minimise scarring. As a plastic surgeon, Dr Nicki pays particular attention to incision placement and skin closure for the most discreet results.
Can multiple moles be removed in one session?
Yes. If suitable, several moles can be removed during the same appointment. This depends on their size, location, and whether histopathology testing is required. Dr Nicki will discuss this during consultation to ensure safety and comfort throughout.