The cost of removing a mole without insurance in 2023 ranges between $150 - $400. Removal costs vary based on the size and location of the mole, biopsy cost, if repeated removals are needed, post-operative treatment, and reason for removal. A certified dermatologist will complete the procedure on an outpatient basis.
The Cost of Mole Removal
Removing a mole without insurance ranges between $150 and $400, depending on many factors. The size, shape, and location of the mole impact the total cost as these can make a procedure more complex, therefore more expensive. The significant cost associated with mole removal is if a biopsy is needed to check for potentially cancerous or cancerous cells. Moles are usually harmless; However, some types can be melanoma - dangerous skin cancer that necessitates medical attention.
Source: HowMuchIsIt
Other Cost Considerations of Mole Removal
In addition to the cost of the treatment, other factors can impact the cost of mole removal. These include any facility fees and biopsy, the removal reason, if additional removals are needed, and post-op treatment.
Facility Fees and Biopsy
Most mole removal procedures will occur on an outpatient basis. Facility fees will vary from office to office, so it is crucial to understand your expected out-of-pocket costs before seeing your doctor and removing your mole.
If your doctor wants to have your mole checked for malignant (cancerous) cells, they will send it to a laboratory. Depending on which lab the biopsy is sent to, it may cost additional money. Biopsies range in price between $80 and $400, depending primarily on the lab that your doctor’s office uses. Be sure to speak with your doctor about the anticipated laboratory fee.
Reason For Removal
Cancerous moles are referred to as malignant. A malignant mole would be a medical reason for mole removal. Non-cancerous (benign) moles may also be removed for cosmetic reasons, such as discomfort or embarrassment about mole placement on the body. Medical removals are usually covered by insurance. However, out-of-pocket costs are similar for both types of removals.
The reason you are getting your mole removed may play a role in your out-of-pocket expense. Suppose a mole is removed for cosmetic reasons and shows no signs of being high-risk. In that case, it may not necessitate a skin biopsy. However, if your mole does raise concerns about melanoma, a severe type of skin cancer, a biopsy will be performed.
Atypical Mole Removal
Moles can be removed for either atypical or cosmetic reasons. Atypical removal means that the mole is of interest for melanoma, a severe type of skin cancer. If your mole looks like it may be atypical (dysplastic), your healthcare provider may recommend the removal of the mole so that a biopsy (sample of tissue from the skin) can be taken. Running a biopsy can help determine if a mole is cancerous or not.
Cosmetic Mole Removal
Moles can also be removed for cosmetic reasons if you do not like how the mole looks or feels on your body. Many people get moles removed for cosmetic reasons each year. These include a mole on an exposed body area, such as your hands, neck, or face.
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Additional Removals
In some cases, moles grow back following removal, primarily if the shaving technique was used. This would require another removal and add to the total cost of removing your mole(s). If a mole has been completely removed, such as when the scalpel-removal technique is utilized, it will not grow back. The shaving technique is more commonly used for moles being removed for cosmetic reasons, and although there is a chance of the mole growing back with this technique, it is not very likely.
Post-Operative Treatment
Following a mole removal you may need pain-relieving medication and/or antibiotics. This can add on additional costs for ibuprofen and similar pain-relievers. Additionally, if your removal site becomes infected your doctor may prescribe you antibiotics, which can greatly vary in cost. Another cost to consider is if you need to get stitches removed, which can vary in price if it is not included in the upfront mole removal expense.
Mole Removal Procedure
Moles are growths on your skin that can range in colors from black and brown, or natural skin tone. They can appear on your skin, alone or in a group. Moles typically show up in early childhood and up to age 20. Cleveland Clinic notes that having between 10 to 40 moles by adulthood is completely normal. There are three main types of moles outlined in the table below.
Types of Skin Moles
Type of Mole | Description |
|---|---|
Congenital Mole |
|
Common (Acquired) Mole |
|
Atypical (Dysplastic) Mole |
|
Source: Cleveland Clinic
There are numerous mole removal procedures including shave biopsy, punch biopsy, scalpel removal, and laser removal. If you would like a mole to potentially be removed, talk to your primary care doctor or a general physician. They will evaluate the mole to determine whether it is benign or whether it should be biopsied to test for cancer. They can hear more about your concerns and reasons for wanting removal. They will also be able to provide you with a referral to a dermatologist if it is warranted.
Mole Removal Techniques
Technique | Description |
|---|---|
Shave Biopsy |
|
Punch Biopsy |
|
Scalpel Removal |
|
Laser Removal |
|
Source: University of Texas MD Anderson Center
Skin Screening
Moles at a higher risk for being atypical can be spotted by you or by your healthcare professional during a skin screening. An easy way to remember which features indicate a higher risk is the acronym “ABCDE'':
A - asymmetry. If the lesion has one side that does not look like the other side.
B - border. Irregular, scalloped, or not well-defined borders.
C - color. Different colors on one mole may indicate a high risk of skin cancer.
D - diameter. If the skin feature is more than 6 millimeters wide, this may indicate a risk of cancer.
E - evolving. A lesion that changes over time is often at higher risk of being skin cancer.
Source: InterMountain Health Care
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Mole Removal Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Consider this additional information when it comes to the cost of removing a mole without insurance.
What Makes Moles Darker and Are There Risk Factors for Moles?
Risk factors for moles include excessive sunlight exposure and tanning bed usage. Many people find their moles get darker during puberty and pregnancy. This is primarily due to hormonal changes. Moles can not be prevented, but there are many ways to avoid or catch high-risk moles. Some methods include limiting sunlight exposure, wearing sunscreen daily, and examining your moles regularly.
Can I Remove A Mole At Home?
This is not recommended at all. Removing a mole is something a certified dermatologist should complete to avoid any severe or permanent damage to your skin. You should be wary of any at-home remedies or products that promise to remove moles, as they can result in many unintended consequences. Additionally, at-home removal will not allow for a mole biopsy to determine if it is cancerous. If you want a mole removed or are concerned about a mole, speak with your physician about it, and they may refer you to a dermatologist.
Do I Need to Take Care of My Current Moles?
There is nothing special or particular you need to do to take care of your moles. Cleveland Clinic does recommend examining them throughself-screening at least once a month. This is important to monitor any new moles or changes in size, shape, and color. Should any changes be noted, contact your healthcare professional.
Will Mole Removal Cause Scarring?
There is always the risk of scarring when removing a mole. However, with advancements in technology and professionally trained dermatologists, the likelihood of severe scarring is slim. The chance of scarring will depend on many factors such as your age, the type of removal technique used, and the location of your mole.
How Painful is a Mole Removal?
The procedure should be virtually painless, considering you will receive an anesthetic before removal. This will either be a topical (applied to the skin) numbing medicine, an injection near the removal site, or both. It is a low-risk procedure. However, there may be some stinging or burning around the area for a few days following the removal.
Bottom Line
Moles are normal and common among the population. However, many people choose to get them removed for cosmetic reasons as well as medical (atypical) reasons. If your mole displays any of the signs of the ABCDE skin check, you should have it checked immediately. The cost of mole removal without insurance varies between $150 to $400 based on multiple factors.
Moles are removed for atypical or cosmetic reasons, primarily by a dermatologist. Being able to consult physicians, receive recommendations for dermatologists, and figure out the best treatment options is essential to maintaining overall health, and wellness is vital for everyone. For an average of $45 a month, Mira provides you with low-cost urgent care, doctor's visit, lab testing, and discounted prescription medications. Sign up today!