Mole removal: radio frequency or CO2 laser?

Question

I’m thinking to get 3 moles removed on my body. I’ve went to a dermatologist for melanoma check last year and they were okay. I see some clinics in my area offer radio frequency/high frequency scalpel, while others use CO2 laser. I tried to search for pros and cons of each but couldn’t find any comparison between the two. Just wondering if any one can give some input on which one is better? Thank you

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Mole removal begins with a comprehensive examination and consultation to determine the likelihood of a mole being worrisome. Excisional and incisional biopsies are reserved for suspicious moles. But it’s good news that most moles are not problematic and are only cosmetic, thus leading to the option of scarless or non-surgical mole removal with lasers and RF and plasma. Our office specializes in non-surgical mole removal.

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself 100 Surgeon

Timothy Jochen, MD · Answer

Both RF and CO2 laser mole removal are effective and have their own set of advantages. The best choice depends on the specific characteristics of the mole, its location, and your skin type. RF removal is best for smaller, superficial moles, especially in visible areas where minimal scarring is desired. On the other hand, CO2 laser removal is ideal for larger, deeper moles or those requiring precise removal with minimal risk of infection. For the best results, it's important to consult with a qualified dermatologist or medical professional who can assess your individual case and recommend the most appropriate treatment method based on your specific needs and skin characteristics.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

When deciding between radio frequency (RF) and CO2 laser for mole removal, it's important to consider the specifics of each method, including their advantages and potential drawbacks. Both methods are commonly used for mole removal and can be effective, but they have different mechanisms and outcomes. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

### Radio Frequency (RF) Mole Removal

**Pros:**
1. **Precision:** RF can be highly precise, allowing for controlled removal of the mole with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
2. **Minimal Scarring:** Often results in minimal scarring, especially if the mole is small and superficial.
3. **Quick Recovery:** The healing process is typically quick, and the risk of infection is low.
4. **Versatility:** Effective for various types of moles, including those that are raised or flat.

**Cons:**
1. **Skill Dependent:** The outcome can be highly dependent on the skill of the practitioner.
2. **Limited Depth:** May not be suitable for deeper moles as it primarily targets superficial layers.

### CO2 Laser Mole Removal

**Pros:**
1. **Precision and Control:** CO2 lasers are very precise and can be controlled to target the mole with minimal damage to surrounding skin.
2. **Effective for Various Moles:** Suitable for both raised and flat moles, and can also be effective for moles with deeper roots.
3. **Minimal Bleeding:** The laser cauterizes as it cuts, which minimizes bleeding during the procedure.
4. **Quick Recovery:** Healing is generally quick, and the risk of infection is low.

**Cons:**
1. **Risk of Scarring:** There can be a risk of scarring, particularly if the mole is large or if the procedure is not performed correctly.
2. **Cost:** CO2 laser treatments can be more expensive compared to other methods.
3. **Post-Treatment Care:** Requires careful post-procedure care to ensure proper healing and to minimize the risk of scarring.

### Considerations for Your Decision

1. **Type and Depth of Moles:** If your moles are superficial, RF might be sufficient. For deeper moles, a CO2 laser might be more effective.
2. **Practitioner Expertise:** The skill and experience of the practitioner are crucial. Choose a clinic with a good reputation and experienced professionals.
3. **Scarring Concerns:** If minimal scarring is a priority, discuss this with your dermatologist to understand which method they recommend based on your skin type and the characteristics of the moles.
4. **Cost and Availability:** Consider the cost of each procedure and the availability of skilled practitioners in your area.

### Final Recommendation

Consult with a dermatologist who can examine your moles and provide a personalized recommendation based on their size, depth, and location. They can also discuss the potential outcomes and any risks associated with each method. Given that you have already had a melanoma check and your moles were deemed benign, either method could be effective, but the final decision should be based on a detailed consultation with a qualified professional.

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