Ellipse Excision
Mole Removal Surgery

If you’ve been advised to have ellipse excision, it is most likely due to the mole being unsuitable for laser. Ellipse excision tends to be recommended for larger and flat moles.

We do offer laser mole removal at all our clinics. However, it is important to choose the most appropriate procedure depending on the nature of the mole. Laser mole removal is best for smaller, raised moles.

Ellipse excision generally does require stitches to bring the edges of the wound together.

We will use dissolving stitches where possible, but in some cases, stitches may need removing by your Doctor/Surgeon. In this case, this would normally be arranged 7-14 days after your procedure.

We understand that you may be nervous about having your mole removed using a scalpel, but the procedure is made entirely pain-free thanks to local anaesthetic. When this wears off, you should only really feel sore or uncomfortable in the area. This can be managed using paracetamol or ibuprofen for a few days as required.

Yes, our medical guidelines state that we should send ALL mole specimens for testing, even if they look completely normal. This is the ONLY way to be sure whether a mole is atypical or not; as often moles can look ok on the surface but have abnormalities lower down.

The removed mole lesion/specimen goes to a separate laboratory and is examined under a microscope by an expert. This is an independent service. Results are returned very quickly for your peace of mind.

Scar reduction therapy can start once the wound has healed. This is typically around 2 weeks after your treatment.

Please see separate FAQ for directions.

For wounds on the face:

• The optimum regime is applying silicon gel (Dermatix or Kelo-Cote® can be purchased either from the chemist or from Cosmedics) morning and evening
• Once dried, makeup can be applied over the top if preferred
• During the day, gentle massage with moisturizing cream or bio-oil helps soften the scar as well
• This can be done for up to 3 months

For wounds on the body/limbs:

• Continue to support the wound with steri-strips or micropore tape for 2 months changing them every couple of days as they get worn. The reason for this that even though the wound has healed the wound is only at about 50% of its normal skin strength at this stage so in areas when the skin moves a lot the scar then stretches if it is not supported during these first few months whilst it regains more strength
• After that you can then start the massage with bio-oil or vitamin e cream to help improve the redness of the scar
• We recommend Dermatix or Kelo-Cote® scar gel, which should be applied twice a day. Makeup can be applied over the top once dry
• Massage and silicon scar gel should be continued for 3 months – you can carry on longer if there is still a benefit

The following table outlines what to expect ‘day by day’ in terms of aftercare and recovery.

We offer ellipse excision at all our London clinics:

• Harley Street London
• Putney
• City of London

We recommend avoiding sun exposure where possible, seeking shade and covering up with clothing. The sun’s UV rays can be very damaging to the skin and can affect healing. You should wear a SPF50+ when outdoors for the first 3 weeks as a minimum.

This diagram shows what to expect at every stage after ellipse excision mole removal.

Healing stages after an ellipse excision mole removal

Day 1–3

• The incision is fresh and held closed with stitches.
• Redness, mild swelling, and tenderness are expected.
• The body begins forming a protective layer of new tissue under the stitches.

Day 3–14

• Stitches remain in place (typically removed around day 7–14, depending on location).
• The wound starts to knit together and looks like a thin red line.
• Some tightness or mild itching may be noticed as healing progresses.

2–4 Weeks

• The wound is closed and stitches are gone.
• The scar looks red or pink as collagen builds and blood vessels repair.
• The area may feel slightly raised or firm.

6–8 Weeks

• Scar tissue matures and the scar begins to flatten.
• Still pink in colour, but redness gradually fades.
• Sensitivity and itchiness usually reduce.

4–6 Months

• The scar softens and lightens in colour.
• It appears less noticeable and blends better with surrounding skin.
• Most tightness has resolved by this stage.

6–9 Months

• • The scar is pale, flat, and faint.
  • Final scar appearance depends on skin type, aftercare, and sun protection.
  • In many cases, only a fine line remains.

For detailed information:

AFTERCARE LEAFLET