The NHS has recently stopped carrying out certain treatments including many types of cosmetic skin lesion removal including mole removal. Moles that are potentially cancerous or life-threatening are still removed in the NHS. For all other types of moles, people will need to have treatment at a private clinic.
Even with potentially cancerous moles, given the COVID-19 global pandemic, surgical waiting lists have significantly lengthened. We would advise checking with your local GP to get an idea of waiting times although you may be disappointed to learn that even potentially suspicious moles are facing long delays to treatment in the NHS.
How can I qualify for mole removal treatment on the NHS?
You will first need to consult with your GP so that you can receive a formal diagnosis. After this, you will be referred to see a dermatologist in an NHS hospital for a detailed clinical assessment. If the dermatologist diagnoses a cancerous mole, you will be eligible for treatment on the NHS. If your mole turns out to be benign, you will be advised to seek treatment at a private clinic.
Centre for Surgery is a specialist centre for the removal of all types of skin lesions including moles. We pride ourselves on providing a comprehensive mole removal service delivered by highly trained plastic surgeons working from our state-of-the-art clinics in Marylebone central London.
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Should I have mole removal at a private clinic instead?
We would recommend having mole removal at a reputable private clinic such as Centre for Surgery as a diagnosis can be achieved much quicker and treatment can be arranged promptly for your peace of mind. NHS waiting times may cause considerable anxiety for many patients.
If you think you may have a suspicious mole, you should book a consultation with your GP. GP waiting times have increased significantly in recent years due to staff shortages which may result in a potentially late diagnosis and this could affect the success of treatment. An early and accurate diagnosis is vital to ensure the best outcomes and prevent the risk of life-threatening complications from occurring.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 global pandemic, waiting times for many types of treatments including mole removal have gotten much longer in the NHS. By choosing to have treatment at a private clinic, you could be seen on the same day and in suitable cases could have treatment in the same session for maximum peace of mind. This allows you to return to your everyday activities straight away with a minimum of fuss.
How can I tell if I have a cancerous mole?
Although most moles are benign and therefore entirely harmless, in a small number of cases moles could exhibit potentially cancerous features. Typical features which you should look out for include moles that appear irregular, larger than normal or have different colours within them. Moles that are rapidly growing, itchy, start to bleed or are painful should be urgently assessed as these are potential clinical features of melanoma.
In most cases, moles are completely harmless although you should be familiar with the ABCDE approach to assessing your moles. If you have any concerns, please get in contact with us today to book a consultation and get a rapid diagnosis followed by appropriate treatment.
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Why should I choose Centre for Surgery for mole removal?
Centre for Surgery it’s one of the leading private clinics in London for mole removal using the full range of techniques including shave excision, surgical excision and laser mole removal. Once you have had a consultation with an expert plastic surgeon, you’ll be able to have the treatment on the same day or at a time to suit you for speedy mole removal. Moles that are surgically removed will be sent for diagnostic analysis and the report will come back to us within a few days. If you would like to get more information about mole removal in London, get in touch with us today on 020 7993 4849 or complete the contact form below.
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How much does mole removal cost in the UK
Mole removal in the UK typically starts from £400 and the final cost will depend on the number of moles being removed. Laser mole removal is cheaper compared with surgical mole removal and is suitable for raised moles that are assessed to be benign and completely harmless. Suspicious moles should always be removed using surgical removal with the specimen sent for histology analysis. Once you have had a physical examination, you will receive customised recommendations on the most appropriate form of mole removal and your dedicated patient coordinator will give you an accurate quotation after your consultation.
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