Radio wave surgery uses the latest in diathermy technology, the Ellman Surgitron to literally shave the mole away until it is smooth with the skin surface. Radio frequency waves are high frequency wavelengths that generate minimal heat. The wavelength that is optimal for skin surgery which is similar to the frequency of marine band radios. When this wavelength is channeled through an electrode tip, it can cut the skin as well as simultaneously coagulate blood to produce a bloodless incision. Also, as it has minimal heat generated, surrounding tissues are unaffected and hence the surrounding tissues causing minimal damage to normal tissue.  And reduces the risk of scar formation. The only limitation of the Ellman for mole removal is that the mole must be above skin level.

Radio wave surgery can be used to make skin incisions or to remove benign skin lesions such as naevi (moles, mole removal), warts, seborrhoeic keratosis (benign skin lesion), and skin tags.

The delicate technique is very useful as it allows the raised lesion to be gradually shaved down until it is level with the skin. Therefore, much less scarring is left than if the lesion were to be removed by incising through the skin with a scalpel. It is also still possible to send part of the lesion off for pathological diagnosis after radio wave surgery.

The first step is to have a consultation with one of our doctors. They will assess whether the lesion is suitable for treatment with radio wave surgery or not.

The procedure takes a short time, and requires only a small local anaesthetic, which is very fast acting. The anaesthetic is injected into the base of the lesion. The radio wave electrode tip is then brushed over the top of the lesion, removing it layer at a time. A part of the lesion may be sent to pathology for assessment.

Following the procedure, a small dressing is applied, which can be left on during showering, and is removed a few days later.

The recovery time is approximately 7 to 14 days in most cases. During this time, the skin may appear slightly red.

It is important for the first three months after removal of the mole that you minimise your exposure to the sun or UV rays. If you are exposed to the sun you should ensure you use at least SPF 30+ sunscreen.

Most moles are not dangerous. If you see changes in existing moles or a mole first appears after the age of 30 then you should see a doctor.   Any mole that displays the changes or symptoms below needs a full clinical assessment by a doctor:

• Color
• Height
• Size
• Shape
• Bleeding
• Discharge
• Itching
• Tenderness