Your Complete Guide to Mole Removal Surgery & Recovery
Procedure Complete: Local anesthesia applied, mole removed using excision or shave technique. Wound cleaned and dressed with sterile bandage.
Immediate care: Keep area dry, take prescribed pain medication as needed.
Wound Protection Phase: Formation of blood clot, initial inflammatory response begins. Mild swelling and tenderness are normal.
Care: Keep bandage dry, avoid strenuous activity, watch for signs of infection.
Suture Removal: For excision procedures, stitches are typically removed. Wound edges should be well-approximated.
Milestone: Return to light daily activities, gentle cleansing allowed.
Early Remodeling: New skin cells form, wound strength increases significantly. Scab formation and natural shedding occurs.
Progress: Most restrictions lifted, sun protection becomes crucial.
Mature Healing: Wound fully closed, collagen remodeling continues. Scar tissue forms and begins to fade.
Recovery: Full activity resume, continued scar care and sun protection.
Complete Recovery: Final healing phase, scar maturation. Pathology results reviewed, follow-up care completed.
Outcome: Optimal cosmetic result achieved, regular skin monitoring recommended.
Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Apply ice packs for 10-15 minutes every hour to reduce swelling. Take prescribed pain medication as directed. Avoid getting the bandage wet.
Gently clean the area with soap and water after 24 hours. Apply antibiotic ointment as prescribed. Change bandages daily. Watch for signs of infection: increased redness, warmth, or discharge.
Protect the healing area from sun exposure for at least 6 months. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Consider covering with clothing when outdoors. UV exposure can cause permanent discoloration.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 1-2 weeks. No swimming or soaking for 1 week. Gentle stretching is okay after 3 days. Resume normal activities gradually based on comfort level.
Schedule follow-up appointment in 1-2 weeks. Monitor for unusual changes in the healing site. Contact your doctor if you notice signs of infection or delayed healing.
Begin scar treatment after 2 weeks with silicone gel or sheets. Massage the area gently to improve flexibility. Consider professional scar treatments if needed after 3 months.
