Can I get a mole removed on the NHS?

It depends. The most important reason for having a mole removed is to rule out any cancerous changes.

Reasons for removing moles

GPs will refer you to a dermatologist (skin specialist) if they have concerns that your mole has any abnormal cells. If the dermatologist thinks your mole could have any abnormal or cancerous cells, they will remove the mole (biopsy) to check it under the microscope.

There is an increasing prevalence of skin cancers and so innocent (benign) moles are rarely removed on the NHS unless it becomes necessary to do so.

In general, moles are not removed for cosmetic reasons. If you wish to have a mole removed for cosmetic reasons then you would almost always need to have it removed privately and will be charged a fee.

How is a mole removed?

Moles are usually removed under local anaesthetic. This is a simple procedure where a small injection is given that numbs the area of skin around the mole. The mole is then removed using a scalpel (sharp medical knife) and sent to a laboratory to be checked under a microscope.

The wound is then closed using stitches and you will be given specific instructions on when to have the stitches removed.

If the mole turns out to be cancerous or pre-cancerous then you're likely to have a further area of skin removed from around the scar as part of the treatment.

Aftercare

You will be given specific instructions about looking after your wound at the time of surgery. This will depend on a number of factors including the site and size of surgery performed.

It's important to keep the wound site clean and covered in the first 24-48 hours to reduce the chances of infection while it heals.

All skin surgery results in scarring. The level of scarring is difficult to predict as everyone scars differently. After the stitches have been removed, gently massaging the area can help the skin heal.

Changing moles

Monitoring moles is important. If they change shape and colour, this can be the sign of a melanoma (skin cancer) forming. Look out for changes in your mole, such as:

• changing size
• changing shape
• changing colour or becoming patchy
• bleeding
• itching

If your mole shows any of these signs, see your GP.

Read the answers to more questions about NHS services and treatments..

Further information:

• When do I have to pay for NHS treatment?
• How do I get cosmetic surgery through the NHS?
• Can I use last year's suncream?
• Mole self-assessment
• Malignant melanoma
• Cancer of the skin
• Moles
• Local anaesthetic
• Protect your skin in the sun