Moles, skin tags, cysts and warts are skin growths that are usually completely harmless but can look unsightly. They are usually harmless but can become troublesome if they catch on clothing or you cut them while shaving. They can also be large, noticeable and situated in a prominent place, making you feel self-conscious about the way you look.
Many people choose to have them removed privately.
Why you might need it
If you have a skin lesion such as a mole, cyst, wart or skin tag and would like it removed, it is usually a simple procedure. You may want to take this step because it may be painful and restricting your movement. Or it could look unsightly and it is having a negative effect on your self-confidence, especially if it is on the face or another visible part of your body.
Removal is a relatively straightforward procedure that is usually done under local anaesthesia – so you won’t feel any discomfort and you’ll be able to go home the same day.
If you decide to have your treatment with us, you will be looked after by an experienced multi-disciplinary care team.
Find a Spire hospital offering this treatment
Who will do it?
Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.
All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals.
Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.
Before your treatment
You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.
We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.
Preparing for your treatment
We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.
For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.
Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.
The procedure
We understand that any medical procedure can be a cause of anxiety – even if it’s a relatively straightforward one like this. That’s why our experienced and caring medical staff will be there for you every step of the way.
The affected area of skin will be numbed with a local anaesthetic before the doctor starts the removal procedure. If you’re worried about the procedure the doctor may also give you a sedative to make you feel more relaxed.
The exact technique used will depend on size and location, but moles and larger lesions are usually removed with a scalpel, the wound closed with stitches and then covered with a temporary dressing.
Warts will be frozen off with cold liquid nitrogen gas or destroyed with a precision high-energy laser while skin tags are normally 'snipped' off with surgical scissors.
We will have discussed with you the best technique for you beforehand.
Aftercare
This is a routine day case or outpatient procedure, so patients can leave as soon as they are ready to be discharged.
Pain relief
You will probably experience some soreness after the anaesthetic wears off. We will give you medication while you’re with us and to take home to help ease any pain.
We will provide you with a supply of all the medicines your consultant feels you need to take home with you after you've left hospital, up to 14 days. This may be at an additional cost to some patients.
Recovery time
You won’t need to take time off work and you should be able to return to your normal activities straight away.
Avoid getting the incision site wet for the first few days. It's quite normal for a scab to develop and this will generally heal within a week or two. Any inflammation will usually disappear within a few weeks too.
End results
The operation will usually leave a scar. How big and noticeable this will be depends on the exact operation. Most scars fade significantly over the first year. We will also give you advice on how to reduce the appearance of your scar, such as gently massaging the site after your stitches have been removed.
Looking after you
Even after you’ve left hospital, we’re still looking after you every step of the way.
On rare occasions, complications can occur following treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms –
- becomes more painful
- looks red, inflamed or swollen
- smells unpleasant
- leaks any sort of liquid
Please call us straight away as you might have an infection. Your consultant will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.
If you have any questions or concerns we’re ready to help.
Important to note
The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.