Whether for health concerns or simple cosmetic reasons, you may have considered removing one or more of your moles. While there are many safe and easy treatment options, your design to remove these skin features will come with questions.
One of the most important questions you may ask is “What is the average mole removal cost?”. Fortunately, Dr. Ardesh can answer any questions you may have. We’ll delve into the various aspects of mole removal, including the associated costs, procedures, and considerations.
Understanding Mole Removal
Before we dive into the cost of mole removal procedures, it’s important to understand its purpose, and what you can expect while being treated. Mole removal is exactly what the name entails, or the removal of moles from your skin for medical or cosmetic reasons.
Typically, your dermatologist or surgeon can help you determine whether or not a mole should be removed. Then, you have the option to address the issue with different procedures.
Types of Mole Removal Procedures
There are a few commonly used types of mole removal procedures suitable for various situations. If you want to know which treatment is right for your body, consider these options and communicate with your skincare professional:
- Excision: This surgical procedure entails cutting the mole away from the skin and stitching the incision. This method is commonly used for larger moles or those suspected of harboring cancerous cells. After removal, the mole is often used to conduct a skin biopsy, allowing medical professionals to assess its nature. This is generally the most expensive option but may be covered by your insurance.
- Shave Excision: Suitable for smaller moles, this method involves shaving off the mole while leaving the surrounding skin intact. Being a less invasive procedure, it’s often chosen for cosmetic removals, and may not be suitable for moles associated with skin cancer.
- Laser Mole Removal: Laser treatment is a simple and popular method for removing moles, especially for cosmetic purposes. The laser breaks down the unwanted pigments within the mole, causing it to fade over time. Laser mole removal is generally the least invasive and most affordable option.
Why Have Moles Removed?
Many people have moles removed for cosmetic reasons, and there’s nothing wrong with this. If you don’t like the appearance or location of a mole, you have the freedom to have it removed from the surrounding skin.
However, while most moles are benign, some are capable of developing cancerous cells. Skin cancer, including melanoma, is a significant concern associated with moles. In these cases, mole removal is essential for your health and safety.
Whether you’re concerned about your moles or not, be sure that you schedule regular check-ups with your dermatologist.
Factors Influencing Mole Removal Cost
Many factors influence the cost of your mole removal. When you’re interested in removing a mole, it’s vital to understand these factors so you can develop a realistic budget.
Removal Method
As touched on in the previous section, different mole removal techniques are associated with different costs. Surgical procedures, such as excision, generally incur higher costs due to the need for skilled surgeons, sterile environments, and post-operative care.
On the other hand, non-invasive methods like laser removal may be less expensive, but more limiting. Depending on your needs, the technique required will significantly impact the overall cost.
Size and Type of Mole
The size and type of the mole play a pivotal role in determining the removal cost. Large or concerning moles will require more expensive surgical techniques. This is especially true for cancerous moles, which require the most careful and comprehensive approach. These moles may need additional diagnostic procedures and stringent protocols to ensure complete removal, increasing the cost.
Conversely, small and flat moles were removed for cosmetic reasons and don’t require complex procedures. In turn, they will cost far less to remove.
Number of Moles Removed
When going in for a mole removal procedure, it’s possible to remove multiple moles at once. Choosing to remove multiple moles can save you time, but keep in mind that surgeons typically charge per mole. The more moles you have removed, the higher the cost.
After all, every mole is different, with some moles being more challenging to extract than others. Your surgeon will discuss the financial pros and cons of removing multiple moles at once prior to your procedure.
Location of the Mole
Moles can pop up almost anywhere, and some locations are easier to treat than others. Unwanted moles in more sensitive or challenging areas, such as the scalp, neck, or face, will require higher levels of precision to extract. The delicate nature of removing moles from these areas usually results in higher costs.
Geographic Location
Where you have your mole removed also impacts the cost. The US is a big country, and healthcare costs vary significantly from one region to another. Major cities can be especially expensive due to increased living expenses, and medical facility costs.
While it is important to find a location that works for you financially, it’s also crucial to prioritize the reputation and expertise of your surgeon. Research your desired facility’s reputation and available healthcare services alongside cost considerations.
Surgeon’s Expertise
A surgeon’s expertise and reputation play a crucial role in the cost and quality of mole removal treatment. An experienced surgeon with a stellar track record may charge higher fees, however, they’ll also deliver the best results.
Biopsy and Further Treatments
Following the initial removal, you may need to have a biopsy performed on the mole. Dermatologists do this to detect and assess potential malignancy in cancerous moles. The biopsy, including the analysis of removed tissue samples, adds an extra layer of cost to mole removal.
Luckily, most moles aren’t cancerous, and you don’t need to worry about the cost of a biopsy when having small moles removed for cosmetic reasons.
Insurance Coverage Vs. Out of Pocket
Depending on the type of mole being removed, your insurance may or may not cover the treatment. To learn more about what you can expect, here is key information about insurance coverage and paying out of pocket:
Insurance Coverage
The likelihood of your insurance covering mole removal depends on the medical necessity of the procedure. If the mole is suspected to be cancerous, or if its removal is deemed medically necessary, insurance plans are more likely to cover the costs. However, coverage is less likely for cosmetic procedures.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses and Financing Options
When you pursue mole removal for cosmetic reasons, your insurance may not cover the procedure. In these cases, you’ll have more out-of-pocket expenses, but there are other financing options available to you. Reach out to your bank, and be sure to consult with your surgeon about financing options. Some surgeons offer payment plans to ease the financial burden of mole removal.
Getting A Quote For Your Mole Removal
Now that you know what contributes to the total cost of your mole removal, the next step is to get a quote for your ideal procedure. Here’s what you can expect in the process:
Step 1: Initial Consultation:
When interested in getting a quote for your mole removal, you’ll start with an initial consultation. During this meeting, you will discuss which moles you want to be removed and why. Important factors to talk about include mole size, location, and any concerns you have about their nature. The dermatologist will use this information to assess the complexity of the removal process.
Step 2: Determining a Treatment Plan:
After talking with you and examining your moles, your surgeon will work to develop an ideal treatment plan. Combined with your input, the two of you can come to a consensus regarding the treatment method and how many moles you want to be removed.
Step 3: Breakdown of Costs:
After the previous two steps are completed, you can receive a quote that includes a detailed breakdown of potential. This includes surgeon’s fees, equipment fees, surgical facility charges, and any additional expenses. Afterward, you can begin to inquire about financing.
Budgeting For Your Mole Removal
Now that you have a better idea of what your mole removal will cost, you can focus on budgeting for the procedure. Here are some tips for how you can afford your removal and save money:
- Reach Out To Your Insurance: If your moles are cancerous or deemed medically necessary to remove, your insurance may help you cover the costs.
- Consider Financing Options: Your surgeon or bank may be able to help you pay for your procedure by providing low-cost loans.
- Take the Time to Save: After receiving a quote for your mole removal, you can always take additional time to save money for the procedure.
Overall, we recommend open communication with your chosen surgeon when you’re trying to budget for your procedure. Discuss your budget, expectations, and any concerns you have to ensure transparency in the process.
Have Your Unwanted Moles Removed Today
If you’re interested in removing a mole and restoring a normal skin appearance, you’re in luck. Dr. Ardesh offers top-quality mole removal procedures, designed to make stubborn moles disappear. You can treat moles in any area of the body, or have multiple moles treated at once.
So, if you want to see incredible changes today, contact us at Schedule your consultation online or visit our office in 150 S Rodeo Dr Suite 260, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
