Mole removal is a minor surgical procedure that safely removes benign or suspicious moles from the face and body, usually in a single appointment under local anaesthetic. At City Dermatology Clinic London, mole removal is carried out by consultant dermatologists and surgeons from £275, with no GP referral needed and same-day appointments available. Every mole is assessed first and, where needed, sent for histology, then removed by shave or surgical excision chosen for the cleanest cosmetic result. Most moles are removed in one visit across our Harley Street and City of London clinics, with clear aftercare throughout.
Shave excision is suitable for raised or dome-shaped moles. Using local anaesthetic, the doctor gently removes the lesion at skin level without the need for stitches. Healing is usually straightforward, and a flat, faint mark may remain. Histology can be arranged when clinically appropriate.
Surgical excision is used for flat, deep, or atypical moles that require full removal along with a margin of surrounding skin. The procedure involves stitches and is performed under local anaesthetic. This method ensures complete excision and allows for routine histology to confirm the diagnosis.
Electrocautery may be used for very small, superficial lesions. The technique uses controlled electrical heat to remove the tissue with minimal bleeding. Stitches are not required, and healing is usually rapid. Histology is not always possible with this method.
Cryotherapy uses controlled freezing to destroy very small, superficial benign lesions. It is not suitable for most moles because it cannot remove the deeper pigment cells or provide a sample for histology. For this reason, it is used selectively and only when the lesion is confidently assessed as harmless and purely surface-level.
Moles are common skin growths made up of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment. They can be flat or raised and vary from light brown to almost black. Most adults in the UK have between 10 and 50 moles, and the majority remain harmless throughout life.
Moles typically have round or oval shapes with smooth edges. Their appearance can change gradually over the years, becoming lighter, darker, slightly larger, or occasionally disappearing. New moles may develop during childhood, adolescence, or periods of hormonal change such as pregnancy.
Moles can appear anywhere on the face or body. Common characteristics include:
• Brown, black, or skin-toned pigmentation
• Round or oval shape with smooth edges
• Flat or slightly raised surface
• Stable appearance over many years
Dermatologists use the ABCDE rule to help identify features that may need professional review:
A – Asymmetry
B – Border irregularity
C – Colour variation
D – Diameter increasing
E – Evolving (any noticeable change)
Other symptoms that warrant assessment include itching, bleeding, new tenderness, or the appearance of new moles after the age of 30.
Moles can be removed for two main reasons:
• Medical: When a mole shows changes or features that raise concern for melanoma or another skin condition.
• Cosmetic: When a mole is raised, catches on clothing, or affects appearance, even if clinically harmless.
Although most moles remain harmless throughout life, complications can occur:
• Development of atypical or dysplastic features
• Irritation from shaving, clothing, or friction
• In rare cases, transformation into melanoma
• Difficulty monitoring moles located on the back or scalp
Several factors contribute to mole development:
• Genetics: the number and type of moles often run in families
• Hormonal changes: puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can influence mole appearance
• Sun exposure: UV radiation can increase the number of moles and alter existing ones
Any mole that changes in appearance, causes symptoms, or raises concern should be reviewed by a specialist. Early assessment ensures the right diagnosis and helps rule out conditions that require medical attention.
Understanding the different types of moles helps identify what is normal and what may require medical review. Most moles are harmless, but certain features can increase the risk of melanoma or make removal advisable for medical or cosmetic reasons.
Raised moles sit above the skin surface and can vary in colour. They are usually benign but may catch on clothing or become irritated. Any changes in their height, colour, or texture should be assessed by a dermatologist.
Flat moles lie flush with the skin and often have an even tone. Because they are less prominent, subtle changes can be harder to spot. Routine skin checks are important, especially if a flat mole becomes darker, enlarges, or develops irregular borders.
Atypical moles are larger, have irregular edges, and show uneven pigmentation. They are not cancerous but carry a higher risk of developing into melanoma. People with multiple atypical moles should have periodic skin examinations.
These moles are present at birth and range from small to very large. Larger congenital moles have a higher lifetime risk of melanoma, making ongoing monitoring essential. Many patients choose removal for either medical or cosmetic reasons.
Acquired moles appear during childhood and early adulthood and are generally small and uniform in colour. They are usually harmless. However, any mole that changes after the age of 30 should be checked by a specialist.
Understanding how mole removal works, from the first assessment to final healing, helps set clear expectations. Your treatment will be carried out by either a consultant dermatologist or a plastic surgeon, depending on whether the mole requires medical evaluation, biopsy, or a cosmetic-focused approach.
| Step | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Initial consultation | A dermatologist or surgeon examines your mole, reviews your medical history, and confirms whether removal is appropriate. |
| Assessment & biopsy (if needed) | Moles with irregular or concerning features may require histology. Your doctor will explain whether sampling is necessary before or after removal. |
| Choosing the technique | We use shave removal, full excision, or electrocautery depending on the mole’s depth, type, and location. The goal is complete, safe removal with the best cosmetic outcome. |
| Treatment day (can be same-day) | The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic. Most removals are completed in a single visit. |
| Histology | Any mole with atypical features is sent for laboratory analysis. Results are shared with you directly. |
| Aftercare | You’ll receive clear wound-care instructions and optional follow-up to review healing. |
| Follow-up | Depending on the technique, a review may be recommended to assess progress and ensure optimal healing. |
| Phase | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | A light scab forms within 24–48 hours. Mild redness, tenderness, or clear fluid are normal as the wound begins to close. |
| Weeks 2–3 | The scab lifts naturally, revealing pink new skin. Colour differences are expected at this stage. |
| Weeks 4–6 | Redness gradually settles as collagen develops. The scar starts to soften and flatten. |
| Months 3–6 | Ongoing remodelling improves texture and colour. Most scars become significantly lighter. |
| Months 6–12 | Final maturation phase. The scar reaches its long-term appearance and stability. |
Clinical note: Healing varies by location, skin type, and the removal method used. Sun protection (SPF 30+) is essential throughout recovery to prevent pigmentation changes.
Our mole removal service is carried out by doctors with dedicated training in dermatology and minor skin surgery. Each case is assessed individually to determine whether the mole is benign, requires histology, or needs full excision for complete removal. Procedures are performed using established surgical methods that prioritise safety, accurate diagnosis, and a good cosmetic outcome.
For cosmetic removals, our plastic surgeons use techniques that help reduce tension on the skin and support finer scars. For medically indicated removals, our dermatologists focus on complete excision and correct sampling for laboratory analysis. Across both teams, careful surgical planning ensures the mole is removed effectively while maintaining the health and appearance of the surrounding skin.
This structured, clinical approach means every patient receives treatment aligned with current medical standards, with clear post-procedure guidance and follow-up where appropriate.
Below are examples of mole removals performed by our dermatologists and plastic surgeons. These images show typical outcomes following common techniques such as shave removal and surgical excision. Results vary depending on the mole’s size, depth, and location, but most patients achieve a smooth and discreet finish as the area heals. These photographs provide a realistic guide to what you can expect after treatment.
Mole removals at our clinic are performed by consultant dermatologists and plastic surgeons who manage both medical and cosmetic skin lesions. With training in advanced excision techniques and routine use of histology where indicated, our team provides evidence-based assessment and precise removal tailored to each mole’s features and risk profile.
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Mole Removal Doctor consultation is £100. We allocate enough time should you wish to have the procedure done straight after the consultation. Please note that all prices are subject to a consultation.
(Fixed prices. No hidden costs)
A free follow-up following your mole removal the procedure just to check and make sure everything has healed up nicely. All dressings will be provided and advice to ensure the best cosmetic outcome.
If there’s something you’re not sure about following the mole removal procedure, you can always come back to be seen by a doctor at no additional charge. Alternatively, if safe to do so your doctor can provide remote advice regarding the healing stage.
Removal of stitches service (if not dissolvable stitches). For biopsy results, you’ll be contacted by the team and the report will be sent to you as soon as we receive it. A GP letter is available should you request one.
A mole should be assessed by a doctor if it changes in size, colour, shape, or texture, or if it becomes itchy, painful, crusted, or begins to bleed. New moles appearing after the age of 30 also warrant a medical review, as do moles that look noticeably different from your other moles. Removal may be recommended if a mole shows any suspicious features, causes irritation, or affects your confidence. Early assessment is important because subtle mole changes can be the first sign of melanoma.
Doctors use the ABCDE rule to identify potential signs of melanoma:
A – Asymmetry: one half looks different from the other
B – Border: edges appear irregular, blurred, or jagged
C – Colour: uneven tones (brown, black, red, pink, or grey)
D – Diameter: larger than 6mm, although smaller melanomas exist
E – Evolving: any change over time, including itching or bleeding
Additional red flags include rapid growth, a mole that becomes raised suddenly, or a lesion that looks unlike your other moles. Any of these changes should be checked promptly by a dermatologist.
If you’re concerned about a mole, it’s important to take action promptly. Changes in size, shape, colour, or texture, as well as itching or bleeding, may indicate the need for professional evaluation. Our doctors use advanced dermatoscopes to examine moles in detail, identifying any signs of concern. We provide expert assessments to detect and address potential risks early. Whether for medical or cosmetic reasons, we offer safe and effective mole removal procedures tailored to your needs.
Dermatologists use dermoscopy which is a magnified examination tool that reveals subsurface patterns in order to assess moles with a high degree of accuracy.
However, no visual assessment alone can confirm a diagnosis. If a mole appears atypical, uncertain, or suspicious under dermoscopy, a biopsy or full removal with histology is the only way to diagnose or rule out melanoma definitively.
For this reason, dermatologists follow a safety-first approach: when in doubt, the mole is removed and examined under the microscope.
Any mole that is removed for medical reasons, or shows features that could indicate melanoma, must be sent for histopathology. This provides a definitive diagnosis and ensures the mole has been fully assessed at the cellular level.
For purely cosmetic removals, histology is not always essential, but many clinics, including leading dermatology centres, recommend it for added reassurance. Any mole that appears atypical during examination will always be sent to the lab.
Understanding the difference between a mole biopsy and mole removal is crucial in determining the appropriate course of action for addressing various skin concerns. A mole biopsy is a diagnostic procedure designed to evaluate a mole at a cellular level. This involves gently shaving or removing a small portion of the mole to be sent off for detailed laboratory analysis. The main aim of a biopsy is to ascertain whether the cells within the mole are benign or malignant, particularly recommended when a mole exhibits atypical features or changes that could indicate a potential for skin cancer. On the other hand, mole removal is a procedure aimed at the complete elimination of the mole from the skin for reasons that may include cosmetic preferences, discomfort due to the mole’s location, or concerns about the mole being potentially cancerous, as indicated by a prior biopsy or clinical evaluation. Performed under local anaesthesia, mole removal methods such as excision or laser removal focus on removing the mole in its entirety, often without the need for further analysis unless skin cancer is a concern.
The key differences between these two procedures lie in their purpose, procedure, and follow-up care. While a biopsy is diagnostic, aimed at detecting cancerous cells, mole removal is therapeutic, intended to eliminate a mole from the skin for cosmetic, comfort, or health reasons. The biopsy involves taking a sample for analysis, whereas removal is about the complete elimination of the mole. Following a biopsy, additional treatment may be necessary based on the results, potentially including mole removal or further medical intervention. In contrast, the primary focus after mole removal is on healing and monitoring the area for any signs of abnormal regrowth or skin changes, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient’s skin health and appearance.
Removing a mole does not prevent melanoma elsewhere on the skin, but removing a mole with suspicious or atypical features can prevent a melanoma from developing at that specific site. Regular skin checks, early detection, and sun protection remain the most effective ways to reduce overall melanoma risk.
Shave and excision removal physically remove the entire mole from the skin, including deeper layers, and allow for histology, while laser only targets surface pigment, which means the mole may regrow and can’t be properly analysed.
The duration of a mole removal procedure at City Dermatology Clinic can vary depending on several factors, including the size, depth, and location of the mole being removed. On average, the procedure can take up to 30 minutes. We strive to accommodate our patients’ schedules, offering the convenience of undergoing the mole removal procedure immediately following your consultation, should time allow. Our clinic is equipped with the latest technology to ensure efficient and effective treatment, prioritizing your comfort and safety throughout the process.
At City Dermatology Clinic, we prioritise your comfort and well-being. Mole removal is performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the area around the mole, ensuring that you feel no pain during the procedure. Our experienced dermatologists have a wealth of experience in performing these minor surgical procedures, focusing on making the experience as painless and stress-free as possible. Following the procedure, you may experience some minor discomfort as the anaesthetic wears off, but this is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.
Cosmetic mole removal is designed to enhance appearance by removing harmless moles that may be unwanted for aesthetic reasons, for example on the face. Medical mole removal, however, is performed for health-related concerns, focusing on moles that might be suspicious or potentially harmful. These procedures often include a histological analysis to check for skin cancer or other conditions.
At City Dermatology Clinic, all our doctors are highly trained plastic surgeons, including Dr. Jana Torres-Grau, Mr. Georgios Pafitanis, Dr. Nicki Bystrzonowski, Mr. Vincenzo Ottaviano, Mr. Reza Alamouti, Mr. Marcus Davis, Dr. Giulia Luciano, and Mr. Parviz Sadigh. Their expertise and precision make us a trusted choice for any mole removal, no matter how complex the case.
The healing process following mole removal is generally quick and uncomplicated. Most patients can expect the treated area to heal fully within 2 to 3 weeks. It’s normal to experience some soreness and a healing wound in the days immediately following the procedure. We provide comprehensive aftercare support to all our patients, including a free follow-up consultation. During this consultation, we review the healing process, offer advice on caring for the wound, and provide any necessary dressings. Our goal is to ensure your recovery is smooth and to minimise the risk of scarring, guiding you through each step of the healing process for the best possible cosmetic outcome.
All surgical mole removals leave some form of scar, but the appearance typically improves over time. Most scars settle significantly over 3 to 12 months as collagen remodelling occurs.
Location, skin type, and the surgical method all influence the final appearance. Following aftercare guidance, including keeping the area clean, avoiding sun exposure, and using SPF on the healing site, helps the scar fade more evenly.
The duration of a mole removal procedure at City Dermatology Clinic can vary depending on several factors, including the size, depth, and location of the mole being removed. On average, the procedure can take up to 30 minutes. We strive to accommodate our patients’ schedules, offering the convenience of undergoing the mole removal procedure immediately following your consultation, should time allow. Our clinic is equipped with the latest technology to ensure efficient and effective treatment, prioritizing your comfort and safety throughout the process.
Our surgeons are skilled in advanced closure techniques to ensure the best cosmetic outcome. With proper care and time, most scars fade significantly and blend naturally with your skin.
While rare, some individuals may have a tendency to develop more prominent scars, such as hypertrophic or keloid scars. If this occurs, our clinic provides tailored solutions to address these issues, including specialised treatments to improve scar appearance. Rest assured, our team is committed to helping you achieve the best possible results with minimal visible scarring.
During the first few days, avoid getting the wound excessively wet, picking scabs, strenuous exercise that may stretch the area, and applying skincare products not recommended by your doctor.
Until healing is complete, protect the treated area from the sun, avoid saunas and steam rooms, and refrain from using exfoliants or active skincare products near the site.
These steps reduce the risk of infection, prevent scar widening, and support clean healing.
Mole removal is generally a safe and straightforward procedure, with risks being very minimal when performed by skilled professionals. However, as with any medical or cosmetic procedure, there are potential side effects to consider, such as mild bleeding, infection, or scarring.
At City Dermatology Clinic, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Our expert team of highly trained plastic surgeons and dermatologists use advanced techniques to minimise risks and ensure the best possible outcomes. We are committed to providing exceptional care and delivering results that leave you feeling confident and reassured.
Both specialists remove moles, but each is suited to different situations:
• Dermatologists are experts in diagnosing skin cancer, assessing mole risk, and choosing the medically safest approach. If a mole looks unusual or requires biopsy, a dermatologist should lead your care.
• Plastic surgeons specialise in achieving the best cosmetic outcome, especially for facial moles, larger lesions, or areas where scarring needs to be minimised.
In many clinics, both specialists work together: a dermatologist assesses the mole, and a plastic surgeon carries out removal when cosmetic precision is the priority.
The NHS typically only offers mole removal for medical reasons, such as when a mole is deemed suspicious or potentially harmful. Cosmetic mole removal is not covered and often involves lengthy waiting times even for non-urgent medical assessments. Additionally, referrals from your GP are required, which can further delay the process. Our clinics provide a fast, convenient alternative with same-day mole removal services – no waiting times or referrals needed. We also offer affordable and transparent pricing, ensuring a cost-effective option compared to most private clinics and hospitals.
At City Dermatology Clinic, we pride ourselves on offering transparent and upfront pricing for our mole removal services, ensuring our clients are fully informed about the costs involved without the worry of hidden fees or unexpected charges. The journey to mole removal begins with an initial consultation with a Mole Removal Doctor, which is priced at £100, essential for assessing the mole and planning the appropriate treatment. The starting price for removing a single mole is £275, a figure that can vary depending on the mole’s location, size, and the complexity of the removal procedure. For patients looking to remove additional moles in the same session, each extra mole is removed at a cost of £175. More specific treatments, such as excision removal of a mole on the body by a Dermatologist or Surgeon, are priced at £325 due to the expertise and care required, while removal of a facial mole by a Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon costs £395, reflecting the precision and cosmetic considerations necessary for such procedures. Overall, clients can expect to pay in the range of £300 to £500 per mole for removal services at most established clinics, with City Dermatology Clinic ensuring the highest standard of care and transparency in pricing. This approach is integral to our commitment to patient satisfaction, allowing you to make the best decision for your skin’s health without any unforeseen financial burdens.
