Mole / Cyst Surgery

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Mole excision is a minor surgical procedure to remove benign or suspicious moles (also called nevi) from the skin. Cyst Surgery removes cysts growing inside the skin.  Moles or cysts may be removed for cosmetic reasons, if they are irritating or growing, or if there is concern for skin cancer.

Unlike laser or topical treatments, surgical excision ensures complete removal of the mole, and the tissue can be sent for biopsy if needed. The procedure is quick, safe, and offers precise, clean results—especially when performed by a trained plastic surgeon.

• Moles that are changing in size, shape, or color tagged as suspicious or atypical lesions (for biopsy)
   
• Irritating moles that rub against clothing or bleed
   
• Unwanted or visible facial and body moles or cysts
   
• Cosmetic removal with minimal scarring

Before surgery:  Medications that cause bleeding or easy bruisability like anticoagulants should be stopped 1-2 weeks prior to surgery.

Anesthesia: local anesthesia 

Incision: the mole or cyst is carefully cut out along with a small margin of surrounding skin. The wound is then closed, but the technique used—such as simple stitches, flap surgery, or sometimes a skin graft—depends on the size and location of the mole. The goal is to remove the mole completely while achieving the best possible cosmetic scar.

Procedure Time:  1-3 hours depending on severity

• Post-op Course: Oral antibiotics and pain reliever are taken for a week.  Expect swelling for 1-2 weeks.  Frequent ice compress is advised to help with the swelling.  

• Suture Removal: sutures are removed after 7 days for the face, and after 10-14 days for the body
   
• Downtime: 7-14 days for swelling; most can return to work after procedure

• Scarring:  scars are usually visible for 1-3 months and will gradually fade over 6-12 months
   
• Results: you will see immediate results after surgery.  

Q: Will there be a scar?
A: Yes, all surgical procedures leave a scar—but Dr. Aicee uses fine suturing and meticulous technique to make scars as minimal and discreet as possible.

Q: Do you send the mole for biopsy?
A: Yes if the mole appears suspicious or was removed due to changes in size or shape, it can be sent for histopathological examination. No need if by  history or clinically does not show signs of malignancy.

Q: Can I remove multiple moles in one session?
A: Yes, multiple moles can be excised safely during one visit, depending on their size and location.

Q: Is this the same as laser mole removal?
A: No. Surgical excision removes the entire mole, including its root, while laser often removes just the surface pigment. Excision is preferred for accurate diagnosis and complete removal.  Laser mole removal will often recur after a few months.

Dr. Aicee Bernal, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, offers expert mole excision with an emphasis on aesthetic outcomes. 

As a trained reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Aicee also ensures that skin closure techniques are suited for optimal healing, symmetry, and beauty—making her a trusted choice for both medical and cosmetic mole removal.

Don’t ignore moles or cysts that are growing, changing, or causing discomfort.
Schedule your mole removal consultation with Dr. Aicee Bernal, and experience safe, expert care from a board-certified plastic surgeon who puts your health and appearance first.