Mole Removal Singapore Polyclinic
- fundamentalmedical
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Mole removal in Singapore polyclinics is a procedure carried out for medical reasons, irritation, or cosmetic concerns. Is mole removal a common, safe, and effective medical procedure? Yes, it is frequently performed for both medical and cosmetic purposes.
A mole is a small skin growth formed by clusters of pigment cells. Moles are one type of skin growths, and other benign skin growths such as epidermal cysts may also be assessed for removal. While many moles are harmless, some may indicate skin cancer. Doctors assess the mole to determine the most suitable approach for mole removal based on the size and location of the mole.
In complex cases or when specialised expertise is required, a consultant with medical aesthetic doctor may be involved in the assessment and removal process.
Understanding a Mole
The mole is composed of pigment cells and can develop due to genetic factors or sun exposure. Moles vary in shape, color, and size, and proper assessment is necessary to identify potential risks. A mole may be flat or raised, and mole removal decisions often depend on these characteristics. Regular monitoring is recommended to detect changes in the mole that may require medical attention.
Reasons for Mole Removal
Mole removal is considered for several reasons. Some people undergo mole removal in Singapore polyclinics due to changes in the mole, such as size, color, or asymmetry. Others experience irritation from moles in areas subject to friction. Mole removal is also performed to address concerns about skin cancer. Cosmetic reasons are another factor, as some patients prefer to remove moles that affect skin appearance.
Preparing for Mole Removal
The first step in mole removal is a thorough medical assessment to determine the appropriate approach. Doctors examine the mole and may use dermoscopy to evaluate its structure. Patients are asked to provide their medical history and disclose medications, including blood thinners, which may need to be paused. The skin should be clean, and loose clothing is recommended on the day of the procedure. Understanding the mole removal procedure and post-care requirements helps ensure safe treatment.
Mole Removal Methods
Surgical Excision
Surgical excision is a type of mole removal surgery used for suspicious or raised moles. The procedure involves numbing the area with local anaesthetic, removing the mole and a margin of surrounding tissue, and stitching the site if necessary. This method usually prevents the mole from growing back after removal.
Shave Excision
Shave excision is suitable for small, raised moles. The mole is removed using a scalpel at the skin level. While quick, some moles may grow back after removal with this method.
Laser Removal
Laser removal is used for flat, small moles with low risk of skin cancer. Laser treatment targets pigment cells without affecting surrounding skin, and recovery is generally quick. Some moles may recur after laser removal, requiring follow-up treatment.
Mole removal singapore polyclinic vs Medical Aesthetic Clinics
Factor | Singapore Polyclinic | Medical Aesthetic Clinics |
Access | Requires referral; longer waiting time | Walk-in or by appointment; faster access |
Cost | Subsidized consultation; mole removal costs generally lower ($109 – $545 per mole) | Higher fees ($150 – $750 per session depending on method) |
Procedures | Standard methods: surgical excision, shave excision, cauterisation | Wider options including laser mole removal, CO2 laser, and excision techniques |
Convenience | More paperwork; scheduled appointments; limited time slots | Immediate treatment; flexible scheduling; shorter waiting time |
Aftercare | Standard follow-up for wound care and monitoring | Tailored aftercare including post-laser care, anti-scarring advice, and cosmetic considerations |
For mole removal, Singapore polyclinics and medical aesthetic clinics differ in several ways. Both polyclinics and aesthetic clinics perform mole removals, addressing both medical and cosmetic needs. Polyclinics generally require a referral and have longer waiting times, but mole removal costs are subsidized and typically lower, ranging from $109 to $545 per mole. Procedures at polyclinics usually involve standard methods such as surgical excision, shave excision, or cauterisation, with follow-up care focused on monitoring and wound healing. Each clinic offers specific mole removal treatment options: polyclinics provide standard surgical methods, while aesthetic clinics offer treatments like laser mole removal and CO2 laser. In contrast, medical aesthetic clinics offer faster access through walk-ins or appointments, a wider range of procedures including laser mole removal and CO2 laser, and more flexible scheduling. Aftercare in aesthetic clinics often includes tailored guidance for post-laser care, anti-scarring measures, and cosmetic considerations, though the fees are higher, generally between $150 and $750 per session.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The procedure begins with local anaesthetic to numb the area. Patients may feel slight pressure, but mole removal is generally not painful. Depending on the size and location of the mole, treatment can be completed in a single session. After mole removal, the treated area may be pink or sore, and a scab may form and fall off within 7–10 days. Stitches, if applied, are usually removed in the same timeframe.
After Mole Removal Care
After mole removal, patients should follow post-procedure instructions to ensure proper healing. The area should be kept clean, and ointments applied as directed. Intense exercise and swimming should be avoided for 1–2 weeks. Scarring and pigment changes may occur, particularly after surgical excision, and infections or delayed healing are possible but manageable. Proper care reduces these risks and helps monitor the healing process.
Recurrence and Monitoring
Some moles can grow back after removal, especially following laser treatment or shave excision. Complete surgical excision reduces the risk of regrowth. Patients should observe the area and consult a medical aesthetic if changes occur. Regular monitoring of moles is essential to detect any potential skin conditions early.
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