Facial Mole Removal with Radiofrequency (RF)

Mole and Lesion Removal

Many adults develop moles or lesions on their bodies, especially on the head and neck. While most are benign, certain changes—such as irregular borders, multiple colors, or abnormal growth—can indicate more serious conditions.

Dr. Katz specializes in the removal of moles and lesions in the head and neck region, with a strong focus on achieving aesthetic outcomes. Our practice is sought out by patients nationwide for our advanced “minimal-scar” mole removal techniques. Although the goal is to create an invisible or very subtle scar, it’s important to understand that no surgeon can guarantee a completely scarless result. Dr. Katz employs state-of-the-art radiowave and laser technologies for mole removal, both of which produce highly favorable scars and typically do not require sutures.

For any pigmented or suspicious lesion, a biopsy is mandatory before complete removal. Our practice sends all suspicious or pigmented tissue samples for pathological analysis to ensure proper diagnosis. We follow a strict policy of not removing pigmented lesions without first conducting a biopsy.

Before                                                                                                                                                 Immediately After RF Treatment   (Same Day)                  

   

         

The removal process begins with local anesthesia to numb the area. Using ultrafine needles, the injection is quick and causes minimal discomfort. Once the area is anesthetized, the mole or lesion is carefully removed using radiowave technology. This method is more refined than traditional electrosurgery, being gentler on surrounding tissues and resulting in a superior cosmetic outcome. If a biopsy is needed, a small section of the lesion is removed with a scalpel before completing the procedure with radiowave treatment.

The procedure itself is painless, though patients may notice a faint smell of smoke, which is suctioned away during the process. Most moles can be removed in just a few minutes. For patients with numerous moles or those who prefer sedation, Dr. Katz offers IV sedation to ensure comfort throughout the procedure and to reduce the need for multiple local anesthetic injections.

Post-procedure care: After removal, the treated site may appear brownish or slightly indented, but this will gradually heal to a smooth, pink surface over the course of about a week. It’s common for the area to look somewhat raw initially, but this should not be a cause for concern as it will continue to improve.

• Slight oozing is normal for the first few days.
• Showering is permitted, but be gentle when washing the area.
• For men, shaving around the treated area is advised for about five days, or until the skin is no longer raw.
• To aid healing, apply a topical antibiotic like Neosporin or an ointment such as Vaseline until the skin is fully healed and no longer raw or weeping.
• Once the skin has healed and is smooth, no special care is required other than protecting the area from direct sunlight by using sunscreen.

Pain medication is not typically necessary after mole removal. Most patients notice significant healing by the 8-week mark, with many having a hard time locating where the mole was initially. While the treated site may remain slightly pink for a few weeks or months, it usually returns to its normal skin tone. In some rare cases, this process can take longer.

Dr. Katz’s success with producing favorable scars stems from his conservative approach to treatment. Rather than aggressively burning or freezing the mole, which can result in unsightly depressions or white scars, Dr. Katz uses a more measured technique that preserves the surrounding tissue. While radiowave surgery successfully removes the mole in 99% of cases, a small percentage of patients may require a follow-up for touch-up treatment. If any mole or lesion remains visible after 8 weeks, a conservative touch-up treatment may be recommended, which is offered at a reduced rate.

Patients with darker skin tones may experience temporary hyperpigmentation at the treatment site, which usually fades with the use of topical creams. For those with lighter complexions, the area may stay pink for a bit longer but can be easily covered with makeup if desired.

If a mole or lesion shows signs of regrowth, it should be re-evaluated by Dr. Katz. Additionally, he recommends that all patients have an annual full-body mole check performed by their dermatologist to monitor for any suspicious changes.