Reviewed by Dr Salinda Johnson MD FSCD
Quick answer: Benign skin lesions are removed either by surgical excision with stitches, or by energy-based methods such as electrocautery and radiosurgery shave removal for small, superficial lesions. The right method depends on the type, size and depth of the lesion and on whether it needs testing. Any mole that is new, changing, bleeding or looks unusual should be checked by a doctor first.
Check first: when to see a doctor about a mole
Most moles are harmless, but changes matter. The NHS says a new mole, or a change in an existing mole, can be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. See your GP promptly if a mole changes in size, shape or colour, becomes itchy, crusty or bleeds, or looks different from your other moles. Don’t have a changing mole removed for cosmetic reasons before it has been properly assessed. At the clinic we examine every lesion before recommending removal, and you should tell the doctor about any recent change. You can also book a GP consultation or read about our skin cancer services.
Which method suits which lesion?
| Lesion | Common methods | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mole | Surgical excision with stitches, or shave removal for some raised benign moles | If there is any doubt about a mole, excision with testing is generally preferred because the whole lesion can be examined |
| Skin tag | Electrocautery or radiosurgery shave removal | Quick, usually under local anaesthetic |
| Wart | Electrocautery and other methods | Warts are caused by a virus and can recur |
| Cyst | Surgical excision | Removing the whole sac reduces the chance of it coming back |
| Lipoma | Surgical removal | A soft lump of fat cells under the skin |
Your doctor will advise the best method at your consultation. You can read more on our mole, cyst and lipoma removal page, and our guides to lipoma treatment and mole removal from skin.
What is electrocautery?
Electrocautery uses heat from an electric current to remove or destroy small, superficial growths and to seal the tissue as it works. Radiosurgery shave removal uses radiofrequency energy in a similar way to take off raised lesions level with the skin. These methods suit small, benign lesions such as skin tags and some warts. They’re quick, and are usually done with local anaesthetic.
The treated area heals with a small scab or graze, and the skin can stay pink or slightly paler for a while afterwards. Warts can return and may need more than one visit.
What is histology, and do I need it?
Histology means sending the removed tissue to a laboratory, where a specialist examines it under a microscope to confirm what it was. It is most useful for moles and any lesion where the diagnosis isn’t certain, because it can show whether cells are abnormal. Our mole excision price includes histology. Cosmetic removal of lesions that are clearly benign, such as a typical skin tag, doesn’t always need testing, and your doctor will explain which applies to you.
What happens at your appointment?
- Examination. A doctor examines the lesion and asks about any change in colour, size, surface or shape.
- Choice of method. You agree on excision, electrocautery or shave removal, and whether testing is needed.
- Local anaesthetic. The area is numbed before removal.
- Removal. The lesion is removed using the agreed method. Excision is closed with stitches.
- Aftercare. You receive written wound-care advice, and if stitches were used you return to have them removed.
Any removal can leave a mark. Excision leaves a fine line, and shave or cautery methods leave a flat area that is often pink at first. Protect the area from the sun while it heals.
How much does removal cost?
These are starting prices from our price list. We confirm your exact quote after examining the lesion.
| Treatment | Price |
|---|---|
| Mole excision and stitching, including histology | From £850 for one mole; £550 for each additional lesion |
| Shave removal with radiosurgery | From £300 per lesion |
| Cyst or lipoma removal | From £550 per lesion |
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
How are moles, cysts and lipomas removed?
Moles are usually removed by surgical excision with stitches, or by shave removal for some raised benign moles. Cysts and lipomas are normally removed surgically under local anaesthetic. Your doctor chooses the method after examining the lesion.
Is a removed mole tested?
A mole removed by excision can be sent for histology, where the tissue is examined in a laboratory. Our mole excision price includes histology.
How long does electrocautery take to heal?
Small areas usually heal over a week or two as a scab forms and falls away, although the skin can stay pink for longer. Healing varies from person to person.
Will mole or cyst removal leave a scar?
Any removal can leave a mark. Excision leaves a fine line scar, and shave or cautery methods leave a flat, often pink area that usually fades. Your doctor will explain what to expect for the site.
Can warts, cysts or lipomas come back?
Warts can recur because they are caused by a virus. Cysts can return if part of the sac is left behind, and a new lipoma can sometimes form elsewhere.
When should I see a GP about a mole?
See a GP promptly if a mole is new, changes in size, shape or colour, itches, crusts or bleeds, or looks different from your other moles.
Book a consultation
You can see a doctor at The London Cosmetic Clinic, 2nd Floor, 4 Harley Street, London W1G 9PB, a short walk from Oxford Circus station. Call 0203 581 3391 or send us a message. Our current prices are on the price list.
Book a consultation online.
