Facial moles are common and often harmless, but many people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or because they cause irritation. At City Dermatology Clinic in London, our dermatologists perform precise shave excision procedures that remove raised moles while minimising scarring.
This case involved a 4mm raised pigmented mole on the left side of the forehead. The mole hadn’t changed in size and had no concerning medical features, making it suitable for a simple cosmetic removal.
Why Shave Excision Is Chosen
Shave excision is ideal for:
- Raised moles that sit above the surface of the skin
- Cosmetic mole removal where minimal scarring is a priority
- Areas like the forehead, cheeks, or nose where precise healing matters
Unlike a full excision (which involves deeper removal and stitches), a shave excision removes the raised portion while keeping the surrounding skin as smooth as possible.
The Procedure
The process is quick, usually taking 10–20 minutes, and is performed under local anaesthetic for complete comfort.
- Numbing the area: A small amount of local anaesthetic is injected around the mole.
- Shaving the mole: Using a fine surgical blade, the raised portion of the mole is carefully removed level with the surrounding skin.
- Electrocautery to stop bleeding: A fine electrocautery device is applied to seal small blood vessels, preventing bleeding and supporting a clean, smooth result.
- Dressing the area: A light dressing is applied, and aftercare instructions are given to support fast healing.
Recovery and Healing
Healing after a shave excision is typically straightforward:
- The area forms a small, flat scab within the first day
- Most patients return to work or normal activities the same day
- The site usually heals within 7–10 days with minimal redness
- Over the following weeks, the skin continues to smooth and fade
Using sun protection and, where recommended, silicone gel or tape can further improve the cosmetic outcome.
Cosmetic Benefits
Patients often choose mole shave excision because:
- There are no stitches or deep incisions
- The result is flatter, smoother skin
- Scarring is usually minimal and discreet
- Downtime is almost zero
When to Consider Mole Removal
You might benefit from a consultation if you have:
- A raised mole that catches on clothing, razors, or hairbrushes
- A facial mole you’d like removed for cosmetic reasons
- A mole you’re monitoring for changes but want examined by a dermatologist
At City Dermatology Clinic, our dermatology team, including Dr Parviz Sadigh and Dr Jana Torres-Grau, will assess your mole during a consultation and recommend whether a shave excision or another technique is the best option.
