0455 859 548Like any cosmetic treatment, mole removal costs will need to be calculated based on some factors that can vary from patient to patient.
While the procedure itself might seem relatively minor, there are still a few technical and clinical factors that can affect how much the procedure will need to cost.
Based in Brisbane, Dr Scott Horsburgh uses the radiofrequency (RF) mole removal method to remove benign moles on different areas of the body.
In this blog, we’ll look more closely at how RF mole removal works, and what can influence the cost.
How radiofrequency (RF) mole removal works
RF mole removal is a technique that uses high-frequency radio waves to remove skin lesions, including raised moles.
The energy from the radiofrequency device targets the mole tissue with enough precision to remove it without affecting too much of the surrounding skin. This can make it a suitable option for removing benign moles that sit above the skin surface.
The RF hand piece is fitted with a small tip, which delivers the RF energy. The tip is then used to precisely and carefully target the mole tissue.
Unlike traditional excision, there’s no scalpel involved, and it does not require sutures. The procedure is done under local anaesthetic and tends to be fairly quick – depending on the size and type of mole, it can take just a few minutes for each lesion.
What to expect during your appointment
When you arrive for the procedure, your practitioner will usually assess the mole one more time to confirm that it’s suitable for RF removal. In some cases, a biopsy might be needed beforehand to confirm that the lesion is benign, especially if it’s changed recently or has any irregular features.
Local anaesthetic is used around the mole to numb the area. Once the anaesthetic takes effect, the RF device is used to remove the mole, with the appropriate technique.
Straight after the procedure, a dressing will usually be applied. You’ll then be given some aftercare instructions, including how to keep the area clean and how long to keep it covered.
Factors that influence mole removal costs
Ultimately, the cost of RF mole removal isn’t a fixed price for every patient.
The costs for radiofrequency mole removal will often depend on how complex the removal is and the position of the mole. For example, a mole in a more intimate area may be more difficult to remove, then a simple mole on the neck.
If the treatment involves removing multiple moles in one session, pricing will also be calculated per additional mole after the first, depending on how much extra work is involved.
In some cases, a mole may sit deeper in the skin or have a more fibrous base, which means the RF device needs to be applied more carefully and in layers. This kind of treatment tends to take longer and may be priced accordingly. It’s also worth noting that if you’re having a mole removed in a more delicate area of the body, such as near the eye or on the lip, this might affect the overall cost, but only because the technique might need to be slightly more involved. That being said, mole removal costs will still usually fall into a fairly predictable range once the size and complexity are assessed during your consultation.
Another factor that can affect the cost is whether the mole needs further assessment. While this isn’t exactly directly related to the RF procedure itself, it can still factor into the total costs of the process.
The possible costs required for recovery and wound care
While RF mole removal doesn’t usually involve stitches, the treated area will still need time to heal.
Most people notice a small scab forming in the first few days after the procedure, which eventually falls off on its own. You’ll likely be advised to avoid getting the area wet for at least 24 hours and to apply a topical antibiotic ointment or dressing, depending on the clinic’s preference.
The area may remain pink or slightly red for a few weeks after the scab falls away. Over time, this generally fades. If the mole was quite deep or in an area that moves a lot (like near the mouth or joints), the healing time might be a little longer.
In terms of scarring, RF removal often leaves a flatter wound compared to traditional excision, but some mild discolouration or surface texture difference is still possible, depending on your skin type and how your body heals. You may be advised to avoid sun exposure for several weeks and apply SPF to help reduce the chance of pigmentation developing in the treated area.
When it comes to costs, you may need to factor in the costs ointments or dressings, and anything else you may need after the treatment. However, depending on what you need, these costs can often be fairly minimal.
How long the results last and how this factors into costs
If the mole is completely removed with the RF method, then the results are typically long-lasting. However, in some cases, especially with moles that extend a little deeper under the skin, there might be a small chance of regrowth over time. This doesn’t happen often, but if it does, the area can usually be treated again.
Your surgeon will usually advise whether the mole is likely to regrow or not, depending on how it looked during removal and whether it had any deeper tissue involvement.
If another treatment is needed, there will typically be the need for additional costs. However, this may not be something that you will need to worry about.
Radiofrequency RF Mole Removal Treatments with Dr Scott: Experienced Brisbane Cosmetic Physician
With over 20 years of experience in aesthetic medicine and general practice, Dr Scott Horsburgh prefers to use the radiofrequency RF mole removal method for improved results.
When you have your consultation with Dr Scott in Brisbane, he will carefully assess the mole (or multiple lesions) that you would like to remove and plan the treatment to take the most appropriate approach.
Please contact us if you would like to arrange a consultation or ask any further questions.
