SKIN TREATMENTS
Radiofrequency mole removal
Radiofrequency uses high-frequency energy to precisely remove raised moles. It allows controlled removal of the lesion with minimal damage to surrounding skin, supporting a good cosmetic outcome.
- Best for raised moles
- Precise removal with minimal downtime
- Designed to reduce scarring compared with excision
See mole removal aftercare for detailed guidance.
Radiofrequency surgery is commonly used to remove raised skin lesions with good cosmetic control. The technique allows careful shaving of the lesion while preserving surrounding tissue. It is particularly suited to visible areas where minimising scarring is important.
This is one of several techniques used for mole removal, selected based on the type of mole and the desired cosmetic outcome.
How this compares to other mole removal methods
- Radiofrequency removal — best for raised moles
- Laser removal — best for flat or pigmented moles
- Mole excision — used when complete removal or testing is required
MBBS, MA (Virtual Comm), Grad Cert Hlth Info, Grad Dip Comp Inf Sci
Before and after radiofrequency removal
Before and after radiofrequency removal. Outcome varies by lesion type, size and individual healing response.
Before and after radiofrequency removal. Outcome varies by lesion type, size and individual healing response.
>Before and after radiofrequency removal. Outcome varies by lesion type, size and individual healing response.
Before and after radiofrequency removal. Outcome varies by lesion type, size and individual healing response.
Before and after radiofrequency removal. Outcome varies by lesion type, size and individual healing response.
How it’s done
- Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area
- The lesion is carefully shaved using a fine radiofrequency electrode
- The goal is to remove the lesion while preserving surrounding skin for optimal healing
Video provided by Cynosure Australia.
Book a cosmetic mole removal assessment to determine if radiofrequency is the right option for your mole.
How to prepare
Simple preparation helps reduce the risk of complications and improve healing.
Avoid sun exposure and tanning in the treatment area.
Read and sign your consent form prior to treatment.
If required, shave the area 24 hours before your appointment.
On the day, arrive with clean skin and no make-up on the treatment area.
After your procedure
- Keep the area dry for 2–3 days if a dressing is applied
- The wound will form a small crust as it heals
- Use silicone-based aftercare (e.g. Epicyn silicone gel) to support healing and reduce scarring risk
Learn more about radiofrequency mole removal aftercare.
Important considerations
- All moles require assessment before removal to confirm suitability — skin cancer checks are recommended if there is any uncertainty
- Best suited to raised moles — not flat or suspicious moles
- Cosmetic outcome depends on mole type, location and healing response
Side effects and risks
- Results vary and complete clearance cannot be guaranteed
- Small risk of scarring, pigment change or regrowth
- These risks are discussed during your assessment before treatment
More detail is available on mole removal risks and outcomes.
Additional information
- Regrowth can occur if deeper cells remain and may require further treatment
- Raised scars are uncommon but more likely in some patients
- Pigment changes (lighter or darker skin) can occur, particularly in darker skin types
Contraindications
- Not suitable for patients with pacemakers or defibrillators
- Usually deferred during pregnancy for cosmetic procedures
- May not be recommended for darker skin types due to higher risk of pigment change or scarring
Hypopigmentation (loss of pigment) at site of radiofrequency removal of 2 moles, right side of neck
Keloid (overgrown) scar formation at the site of radiofrequency mole removal
Depressed scar seven months after radiofrequency mole removal
References
- Bridenstine, James B. Use of ultra-high frequency electrosurgery (radiosurgery) for cosmetic surgical procedures. Dermatologic surgery, 1998-03, Vol.24 (3), p.397-400, 1998
- Chan B. Surgitron training course. Aesthetic and Skin Institute, Melbourne, Australia. 2020
- Chan, Ben Surgical aesthetics & skin cancer using radiowave surgery. Cynosure webinar 2020
- Niamtu, Joseph. Radiowave surgery to remove moles. Aesthetic dermatology news, 2007 March/April, p10-11, 2007
- Niamtu, Joseph. 4.0 MHz radio wave applications in cosmetic facial surgery. Cosmetic dermatology, 2003 vol 16 (11), p33-46.
- Pfenninger, John & DeWitt, Donald Radiofrequency surgery (modern electrosurgery). Pfenninger and Fowler’s procedures for primary care. Elsevier, 2010. Chapter 31, p213-224
- Sachdeva S, Dogra A Radiofrequency ablation in dermatology. Indian J Dermatol 2007;52:134-7.
Mole removal starts with assessment
Have a mole or skin lesion assessed by an experienced skin cancer doctor. We confirm it is suitable for removal and recommend the safest approach for the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Book a mole removal assessment