No. Benign-appearing, stable moles don’t require removal unless they’re irritated (shaving/clothing), repeatedly traumatized, symptomatic, or removed for cosmetic reasons. Suspicious lesions should be removed for diagnosis.

After local anaesthetic, we remove the lesion by either:

• Excisional biopsy/excision (elliptical removal with a small margin; preferred when diagnosis is uncertain).
  
• Shave removal (for raised intradermal moles when diagnosis is clear and cosmetic smoothing is desired).
  You’ll feel pressure but no sharp pain once numbed. Closure may require stitches (face: ~5–7 days; trunk/limbs: ~10–14 days). We avoid lasers for pigmented lesions that might need pathology.
  

Scar (size depends on technique/site), infection or bleeding (uncommon), pigment change (lighter or darker), and recurrence/re-pigmentation—more likely after shave removals (sometimes called “pseudomelanoma” histologically). Rarely, wider excision is recommended if pathology shows atypia extending to margins.
Most typical moles remain stable and can be safely observed. However, a mole that is evolving or atypical should be biopsied—delaying removal of a suspicious lesion could miss an early melanoma. When in doubt, get it checked.

Do

• Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24 hours, unless instructed otherwise.
• After the first day, gently cleanse the area once or twice daily with mild soap and water.
• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or prescribed ointment and cover with a clean bandage if recommended.
• Protect the area from sun exposure during healing and afterward. Use SPF 30 or higher mineral-based sunscreen and physical protection such as a hat or clothing.
• Follow any specific instructions regarding suture care if stitches were placed.
• Attend follow-up appointments for suture removal and wound evaluation if required.

Don’t

• Do not pick at scabs or crusting, as this can increase the risk of scarring or infection.
• Avoid soaking the wound (baths, hot tubs, pools, or swimming) until the site has healed or your physician advises it is safe.
• Avoid applying harsh skincare products (retinoids, exfoliating acids, or active treatments) directly on the healing area until it has fully recovered.
• Avoid stretching or rubbing the area excessively, particularly if sutures are present.

Healing

Mild redness, tenderness, or a small amount of clear drainage can occur in the first few days. Healing time varies depending on the size and location of the removal and whether sutures were required.

Contact the clinic if you notice increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or significant pain, as these may be signs of infection.