Does Mole Removal Always Result in Scarring

After some methods, patients can sometimes be left with a mole removal scar after the treatment. However, with minimally invasive technology like radiofrequency (RF), moles can be efficiently removed while minimising scarring.

Radiofrequency (RF) doesn’t need to use incisions or stitches, which prevents leaving a mole removal scar and can preserve the surrounding skin.

While RF mole removal can minimise scarring, the way the skin responds to the removal process can depend on factors like skin type, aftercare, and more. Therefore, there can never be a guarantee that any mole removal treatment can completely prevent scarring.

In this blog, we’ll discuss how RF mole removal works, how the treatment can minimise scarring and the further aftercare steps you can take to prevent having a mole removal scar.

When you’re ready to discuss the treatment with an experienced Cosmetic Physician, you are welcome to contact our team to book a consultation with Dr Scott in Brisbane.

How does radiofrequency (RF) mole removal work?

Radiofrequency mole removal uses high-frequency energy to remove moles non-surgically. It can remove benign moles, cherry angiomas, skin tags, seborrheic keratosis, and warts.

The technique involves using a fine-tipped electrode that generates RF energy to vaporise the mole tissue layer by layer, without cutting into the skin with a scalpel.

Since it doesn’t involve stitches, this method is often preferred for reducing the risk of visible scarring compared to traditional excision. The precision of the technology can also help to preserve the skin surrounding the area, which minimises damage.

The heat generated by the RF energy can also help to sterilise the area, which can minimise the chance of infection occurring, as well as help to seal small blood vessels and reduce bleeding.

The treatment is usually performed under local anaesthetic to keep the area comfortable and can take about 30 minutes to complete. Once the mole has been removed, the treated area is left to heal naturally – it’s normal for a slight abrasion to be left behind, but the skin’s natural healing response should help it fade.

You’ll also be given some aftercare instructions to follow to help the area heal, which can also minimise the chance of having a mole removal scar.

How does the treatment minimise the chance of having a mole removal scar?

Apart from the fact that the method avoids the need for surgical excision, one of the reasons it tends to result in less scarring is because the removal is very controlled.

Instead of making a deep incision, the RF energy removes layers of the mole while preserving the surrounding skin. This means there is less trauma to the area, reducing the body’s need to produce thick scar tissue.

While the goal of the treatment is to effectively remove the targeted mole without leaving a scar, some level of scarring is always possible any time the skin is broken. Some people will heal with little to no visible trace of the procedure, while others may develop a faint mark where the mole was.

What does the healing process looks like after RF mole removal?

After the mole is removed, the treated area will form a small scab as part of the natural healing process. The scab typically falls off within a week or two, revealing new skin underneath. At first, the new skin may appear pink or slightly different in tone compared to the surrounding area, but this usually fades over time.

The healing timeline can vary, but in most cases, the skin continues to improve over the following weeks to months. Some people may find that after a few months, there is little to no visible sign of the removal, while others might have a faint mark that gradually fades.

If a mole was quite deep, the area may take a little longer to heal. While the surface of the skin will recover quickly, the deeper layers of tissue can take more time to fully heal. This is why post-treatment care is important, as it helps to support the skin’s healing process and improve the final result.

MORE: Check Dr Horsburgh’s mole removal before and after gallery

How to minimise a mole removal scar

While radiofrequency (RF) mole removal is designed to keep scarring to a minimum, taking care of the skin after the procedure can make a difference in how the area heals.

In the first few weeks, keeping the area clean and protected is important. Applying any recommended ointments can help support the healing process, and avoiding unnecessary irritation – such as rubbing or scratching the area – will help prevent complications.

Once the scab has fallen off, using a high-SPF sunscreen can help prevent the new skin from darkening due to sun exposure. UV light can increase pigmentation in healing skin, which is why protecting the area is essential if you want to reduce the chances of a visible mole removal scar.

For those who are concerned about the appearance of the scar, silicone-based gels or sheets are sometimes used to help flatten and soften healing skin. However, these should only be applied once the surface of the skin has fully healed.

Most of the time, any mark left behind will continue to fade over time. If a faint scar remains, treatments like laser therapy or skin resurfacing may be considered to further treat the area if needed.

Radiofrequency (RF) Mole Removal with Dr Scott: Brisbane Cosmetic Physician

Specialising in removing a variety of skin lesions, experienced Brisbane Cosmetic Physician Dr Scott Horsburgh has gained qualifications in Skin Cancer Surgery.

Based in Brisbane, Dr Scott uses a tailored, patient-centred approach to remove benign moles, cherry angiomas, skin tags, seborrheic keratosis and warts. During a consultation, he will perform a dermoscopic evaluation to see if the particular lesion can be removed.

He can then create a personalised treatment plan to effectively remove the mole while preventing scarring as much as possible.

As well as experience in mole removal, Dr Scott has more than 20 years of experience in aesthetic medicine and general practice. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practice and has completed a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Queensland.

To see Dr Scott in Brisbane for a mole removal treatment plan, please feel free to contact our team!