What is a Benign Mole?
A benign mole (medically known as a benign naevus) is a coloured spot on the skin that develops when pigment cells called melanocytes grow in clusters. They can be flat or raised, pigmented or skin-coloured, and most people have between 10 and 40 on their bodies by adulthood.
Benign skin moles are non-cancerous and generally harmless. Most appear in childhood and adolescence, can darken during pregnancy or sun exposure, and may fade from around the age of 50.
There are several types of benign moles, classified by which layer of skin they originate from:
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Junctional naevi — pigmented and flat
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Compound naevi — pigmented and raised
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Intradermal naevi — non-pigmented and raised
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Seborrhoeic keratosis — pigmented, raised, with a rough or "stuck on" surface
The technique used to remove a mole depends on which type it is, how raised or flat it is, and where it sits on the body.
We may recommend removal if your mole:
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Is cosmetically noticeable or affecting your confidence
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Catches on clothing, jewellery, or when shaving
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Is growing or has changed in appearance
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Is itchy, bleeding, or inflamed
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Has features that warrant further investigation
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How Does Benign Mole Removal Work?
At Surgica Medical, we offer a private mole removal procedure in Exeter, performed by Dr Shakman. We provide fast access to appointments and a straightforward, same-day procedure under local anaesthetic.
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Every mole is examined under high-magnification dermoscopy first to confirm it's benign and suitable for cosmetic removal. If anything looks suspicious, we'll pause and recommend further investigation before proceeding. Safety comes before cosmetics.
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We discuss the best technique for removal of mole, either shave or excision. This will be based on the mole's location, type, and your skin. Shave removal suits raised moles with minimal scarring; elliptical excision suits flat moles or where recurrence needs to be avoided. The incision is planned along your natural skin tension lines to hide any scar in existing creases.
Local anaesthetic numbs the area within seconds. The mole is then removed with precision, a shave excision heals like a graze with no stitches, while an elliptical excision removes the mole at the root and is closed with cosmetic sutures. The whole procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes.
The sample is securely sent to our partner laboratory for review by a Consultant Pathologist. Histology is included as standard for every mole we remove, regardless of how clearly benign it looks.
You leave with a small dressing and full written aftercare. SPF 50 sun protection on the scar is essential for 6 months to prevent permanent pigmentation. You'll receive your histology results by secure email, typically within 10–14 days, confirming the diagnosis in writing.
Why Choose Surgica Medical for Removal of Your Mole?
Surgical Precision,
GP Care
Hospital-trained surgeon, with the care of a family doctor.
Hospital Standards, Private Setting
Theatre-grade surgery in a calm, private clinic.
Premium Aftercare Included
Cosmetic closure and minimal scarring as standard.
Skip the NHS
Waiting List
No referral needed. Book a consultation directly.
Frequently asked questions
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