Having a mole removed can be quite a rewarding experience, whether you’re addressing a recent concern or finally getting rid of a spot that has bothered you for years. Fortunately, mole removal doesn’t require much downtime, and with the proper aftercare, it may leave you with little to no visible scarring.
In this blog post, we’ll share our top tips for mole removal aftercare, from ways to prevent scars to a few activities you should avoid.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From a Mole Removal?
Your skin will need about 2 to 3 weeks to heal after having a mole removed. However, this likely won’t cause any changes to your daily routine. You may want to take it easy the rest of the day after your appointment, but you should be back up to speed fairly quickly.
{Curious how much mole removal costs? Find out in this blog post.)
How To Care for Your Skin After a Mole Removal
Most of your recovery revolves around keeping the area clean and undisturbed so it can repair itself naturally. A few top tips include:
- Keep the area covered for 24 to 48 hours.
- Do not pick at, scrub, exfoliate, or shave the area until fully healed.
- Wash your hands before caring for the site.
- Make sure the site remains clean and hydrated. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends covering the area in petroleum jelly.
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet and drink plenty of water.
Keep in mind your surgeons will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions before sending you home.
Will I Need Pain Medication After a Mole Removal?
Most people only need over-the-counter pain medications to manage their discomfort once the local anesthesia has worn off. Steer clear of NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium), as these will heighten your risk of bleeding and bruising. Instead, go for acetaminophen (Tylenol®), which doesn’t have this effect.
When Should I Call My Surgeon After a Mole Removal?
Call your surgeon if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent bleeding
- Signs of infection
- Fever
- Mole growing back once healed
Your support team is happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have as your treated area heals.
What Should I Avoid During Mole Removal Recovery?
While your wound is still healing, do your best to avoid:
- Shaving at or near the site
- Strenuous activity
- Using retinol, exfoliants, or other irritating skin products on the area
- Prolonged exposure to water
- Medications that may cause bleeding
What Is the Best Way To Prevent Mole Removal Scarring?
One of the best ways to prevent scarring is to prevent the wound from reopening. Avoid picking at the area or participating in any strenuous activity that may cause it to stretch or reopen. Keep the site clean and hydrated, and make sure your hands are clean whenever you touch or care for the wound.
We also recommend avoiding alcohol or nicotine use during the healing period. These substances can interfere with your body’s ability to repair the area.
If you would like to learn more about mole removal and what to expect, please request a consultation online or call our Toronto practice at (416) 663-9649.
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