Cosmetic Mole Removal in St. Louis: How It Works and What to Expect

What Is Cosmetic Mole Removal?

Cosmetic mole removal is the non-medical removal of benign (non-cancerous) moles for appearance-related reasons. Unlike moles that are removed due to suspicion of skin cancer, cosmetic removals are performed when a mole is:

• Considered unattractive or distracting
• Interfering with shaving, makeup, or clothing
• Causing mild irritation (e.g., rubbing against straps or jewelry)

The key is to confirm that the mole is benign through a professional skin evaluation before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.

Is My Mole Safe to Remove?

Before removing any mole, our dermatologists conduct a thorough skin examination to rule out signs of skin cancer or dysplasia. We use the ABCDE rule to evaluate moles:

• Asymmetry
• Border irregularity
• Color variation
• Diameter over 6mm
• Evolving in size, shape, or color

If your mole is safe to remove, we can proceed with a cosmetic procedure. If it appears suspicious, we may recommend a biopsy or medical excision, which is often covered by insurance.

Cosmetic Mole Removal: What to Expect

At our Troy, MO, clinic, mole removal is performed in-office by experienced dermatology professionals. The process is quick, safe, and virtually painless for most patients.

Step 1: Consultation and Skin Evaluation

We’ll begin by examining the mole, answering your questions, and discussing the best removal method based on its size, location, and depth.

Step 2: Local Anesthesia

To ensure your comfort, we use a small amount of local anesthetic to numb the area before the procedure begins.

Step 3: Removal Procedure

Depending on the type of mole, we typically use one of the following methods:

• Shave Removal: The mole is carefully shaved off, leaving it flush with the skin’s surface. This method is ideal for raised moles.
• Excision: For deeper moles, a small elliptical incision is made to remove the whole lesion and root. Stitches may be used, depending on the depth.

Both methods are designed to minimize scarring and provide a smooth cosmetic result.

Step 4: Healing and Aftercare

After removal, a small dressing or bandage is applied to the area. Healing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the mole’s location and the removal method used. We’ll provide clear instructions on how to:

• Keep the area clean
• Apply any prescribed ointments
• Reduce the risk of scarring

You’ll also receive post-care tips for skin protection, including the use of SPF to prevent hyperpigmentation.

Will There Be a Scar?

Scarring is always a possibility when removing skin tissue, but our team takes every step to minimize visible marks. Factors that affect scarring include:

• Size and depth of the mole
• Your skin type and healing response
• Aftercare compliance

Most patients report a small, flat scar that fades over time, and consider it a welcome trade-off for clearer, smoother skin.

Why Choose Us for Cosmetic Mole Removal in the St. Louis Region?

At our Troy, MO office, we combine the precision of medical dermatology with the artistry of cosmetic care. Our board-certified providers are highly trained in minimally invasive techniques and offer:

• Personalized treatment plans
• Natural-looking results
• Honest, expert guidance
• Follow-up care to ensure optimal healing

We proudly serve patients from Troy, Wentzville, O’Fallon, Lake St. Louis, and the surrounding areas who are looking for expert mole removal in a professional and welcoming environment.