What is radiofrequency mole removal surgery?

Radiofrequency (RF) surgery is a procedure used for the removal of moles and small skin growths. High frequency radiowaves are channelled through an electrode tip to cut away the mole, or used to shave down moles or skin lumps with very little to no scarring.

Radiowaves are found in bands much like your FM or AM radio station, but these version can be used to perform skin surgery and remove moles. Radiowaves, when used on skin, are high-frequency wavelengths that result in very little heat. The best wavelength for mole removal surgery is 4.0 megahertz (MHz). This wavelength is able to cut the skin while also sealing blood vessels to prevent bleeding. Surrounding tissue is unaffected.

Skin excision with a scalpel vs RF surgery

RF surgery has many advantages over scalpel-based mole removal. Scalpels tend to cause a lot of bleeding and leave more scars.

We love RF mole removal surgery because:

• No pressure is required, making surgery very precise

• Wound is cauterised, stopping bleeding before it starts

• More sterile environment

• Leaves very little scarring

• Tends to be safer (with well understood risk profile)

• Less swelling and pain during healing

• No stitches needed

• Skin appearance is better after healing

What happens during the RF mole removal?

After having a consultation at our Melbourne mole removal clinic, your doctor will advise you on the best course of action, as different types of moles will suit different procedures. Not every mole will necessarily be a good candidate for RF mole removal.

The area surrounding your mole will be numbed with a local aesthetic injection. The high-frequency waves will be sent out of an electrode. The RF surgery process works by superheating the water inside cells until the cells rupture, a process which is then continued until all of the tissue has been removed.

The area around the wound will be bright pink and a scab will form over the top.