If you’re considering mole removal, one of the most common questions is: “How quickly will the wound heal, and what will the scar look like?”
The answer depends on the type of procedure performed. Mole removal is usually done in one of two ways:
- Shave excision –
The mole is shaved down to skin level.
Heals on the surface within 1–2 weeks, but the mark may take months to fade. - Ellipse excision –
The mole is cut out with a small margin of skin and closed with stitches.
Stitches are removed after 7–14 days, and the scar continues to mature for 6–12 months.
Both methods are safe and effective, but the healing process looks slightly different.
Mole Removal Shave Excision Wound Healing
Healing After Shave Excision
Shave excision leaves a superficial wound that looks similar to a graze. It usually heals quickly because stitches aren’t required.
Healing timeline:
- Day 1–3: Fresh wound or scab forms.
- Day 3–14: Scab falls away, leaving a flat pink mark.
- 2–4 weeks: Red/pink patch as new skin builds.
- 6–8 weeks: Mark begins to fade and blend with surrounding skin.
- 4–6 months: Lighter and softer in texture.
- 6–9 months: Often barely noticeable, blending well into the skin.
Healing After Ellipse Excision
Mole Removal Ellipse Excision Wound Healing
Ellipse excision is used when a mole needs to be completely removed, often for diagnostic or cosmetic reasons. It involves stitches and takes a little longer to heal fully.
Healing timeline:
- Day 1–3: Fresh incision with stitches, some redness and tenderness.
- Day 3–14: Stitches remain until removal, wound starts to knit together.
- 2–4 weeks: Wound closed, pink/red linear scar visible.
- 6–8 weeks: Scar tissue flattens, less itchy or sensitive.
- 4–6 months: Scar lightens and blends with skin.
- 6–9 months: Flat, pale scar line remains.
FAQ: How Quickly Does the Wound Heal After Mole Removal?
When will the scar look better?
By 3–6 months, scars usually look much lighter, though full results can take up to a year.
Can I speed up healing?
Yes. Keep the area clean, avoid picking, use sunscreen (SPF 30+ for at least a year), and consider silicone gels or scar sheets if advised.
Does healing differ on the face vs body?
Yes. Facial wounds heal faster and usually leave finer scars. Areas like the back or chest may take longer and sometimes scar more noticeably.
When should I seek help?
If you notice increasing redness, swelling, pus, pain, or if the wound reopens, contact your clinic or GP.
Mole Removal
We understand that choosing to have a mole removed can feel daunting. At Cosmedics Skin Clinics, our friendly, expert doctors are here to guide you through every step — from consultation and diagnosis to treatment and aftercare. With thousands of successful procedures performed, you can feel confident knowing your skin is in safe hands.
Book Now!
Arrange your appointment today and let us help you achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome. Call 0207 386 0464 or book online.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics
Cosmedics Skin Clinics was established in 2003 and has built up an excellent reputation for cosmetic and medical skin treatments, carried out by GMC Registered Doctors. The company offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including popular lip enhancement and wrinkle relaxing injections, dermal fillers; plus medical treatments including mole removal, thread vein treatment and excessive sweating injections.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics has a team of skin treatment doctors and surgeons in their skin clinics across London and Bristol led by Dr Ross Perry.
Call 020 7386 0464 or email [email protected] to book an appointment.
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