SKIN TREATMENTS

Cosmetic mole removal

Removal of unwanted moles, with options tailored to your skin and cosmetic goals.

  • Doctor assessment before every treatment
  • Laser, radiofrequency and excision options
Book a mole removal assessment
Close-up of a woman receiving mole removal treatment on her cheek, with gloved hands holding a treatment instrument. Book a mole removal assessment

Most moles are harmless and do not need removal, but you may want treatment if they bother you, catch on clothing or interfere with shaving.

Mole removal assessment

A doctor examines your mole with a dermoscope to assess whether cosmetic removal is suitable, then discusses removal options, healing and scarring. If skin cancer is suspected, a biopsy or other medical care may be recommended instead.

Learn about a mole removal assessment. If your mole has changed or returned after treatment, book a 1–3 spot check before considering cosmetic removal.

Dr Chris Miller
Written by Dr Chris Miller Accredited skin cancer doctor

MBBS, MA (Virtual Comm), Grad Cert Hlth Info, Grad Dip Comp Inf Sci

Mole removal methods

Radiofrequency mole removal using needle electrode
Radiofrequency surgery

Controlled removal of suitable raised moles.
Laser mole removal
Laser mole removal

Treatment of suitable flat or slightly raised pigmented moles.
Doctor marking the skin around a lesion on a patient’s arm before removal
Mole excision

Surgical removal when complete removal or laboratory testing is needed.

When is excision used?

Mole excision may be recommended when complete removal or laboratory testing is needed, or when other techniques are unsuitable.

What types of moles can be removed?

Raised dermal moles and flat or slightly raised pigmented moles may be suitable for removal. Similar-looking lesions, such as seborrhoeic keratoses and skin tags, can also be assessed at your appointment.

Important information

Informed consent is required, including discussion of scarring risk

A cooling-off period may apply before cosmetic procedures

Types of moles commonly removed

Pigmented raised dermal mole naevus near woman's lips
Dermal moles

Raised, soft moles that may be skin-coloured or brown.
Close-up view of compound mole
Compound and junctional moles

Flat or slightly raised pigmented moles.

Atypical or changing moles

Unusual or changing moles need medical assessment before cosmetic treatment is considered. Excision may be needed so the tissue can be tested.

Learn the difference between moles and freckles.

How many treatments will I need?

Some moles can be removed in one session; others need staged treatment depending on their size, depth and how the skin heals. Follow-up may be recommended to assess healing and whether further treatment is needed.

Recovery and wound care

Recovery depends on the removal method and site. Follow the instructions for your procedure: radiofrequency mole removal, laser mole removal or surgical excision. The clinic will advise about dressings and review.

Treatment Typical course

Radiofrequency

Usually one treatment, with review at 4–6 weeks.

Laser

Typically 3–6 sessions at 4-week intervals.
Progress is reviewed at each visit, with further treatment if needed.

Important considerations before removal

Scarring and cosmetic outcome

All mole removal procedures leave a scar. Scars usually fade over time, but the final appearance depends on the mole, the removal method and how your skin heals.

Treatment involves balancing cosmetic outcome with completeness of removal. Your doctor will explain the likely trade-offs.

How many moles can be removed at once?

Several small moles can often be treated in one session. The number depends on their size, location and removal method; some may be better treated over separate appointments.

Pregnancy

Cosmetic mole removal is usually deferred until after pregnancy. A suspicious or changing mole should still be assessed promptly, with any necessary investigation or treatment discussed with your doctor.

Regrowth

Moles can regrow if cells remain after treatment. If a mole reappears, have it reassessed before further removal.

Fees

Fees depend on the removal method and number of moles treated. See our assessment fees and cosmetic mole removal fees.

Mole removal starts with assessment

Book a mole removal assessment