Does anyone know if GP's can remove moles? And if so what the process is like?

[tiffanyblues]

I have a raised mole around halfway under my armpit / side of my breast. This causes difficulty when shaving or waxing, as I always fear I'll catch it. I'm 25 and I've had this since I can remember. Its raised, and it always disgusted me. I'm very self conscious about it and though it's in a place not many can immediately see, going into these warmer months wearing looser clothing is bringing back insecurities.

From what I understand, GP's won't remove it for cosmetic reasons but I want to know if I was to go see them, would they consider it. If not, how do I go about a removal process. I've looked at home remedies online but would prefer to look at a legitimate process first. Any advice?

I don’t know what the current situation is with GPs. I’ve had them removed both by GPs and by a dermatologist. The procedure was the same: they injected a local anaesthetic, cut out the mole (with a scalpel I guess, I deliberately didn’t look!) and then stitched up the wound.

Not exactly enjoyable but not a big deal. The worst part is the local anaesthetic which can really sting.

My doctor removed one for me. Very simple procedure. Was a few years ago now though.
Ring for an appointment and ask for it to be removed because you keep catching it. That’s all I said, @he wanted to check it wasn’t a problem mole anyway, so no problems.

I think you're unlikely to get it removed on the NHS without having any signs of skin cancer tbh. I had one removed but it kept bleeding, I was referred to a dermatologist who took it off. I doubt they would've if it hadn't been bleeding though.

No, the GP wont remove it. They may refer you to a dermatologist, but theres a very long waiting list.

I've had to have all mine seen to privately. Certainly around here, GP's (the CCG) does not cover mole removal, and haven't done for some time.

I tied some string around mine and it dropped off after about a week.

If your GP has trained in minor surgery and has CQC registered for minor ops clinics, you should be able to get that done no problem. If not, then unfortunately that does mean a referral to dermatology for removal.

Do you need a referral for mole removal privately at a dermatologist.

I’ve 2 raised moles (not brown, just skin coloured) that I hate as people think they are a spot and would love to finally get rid.

A GP wouldn't do it here, not on the NHS anyway. It's a cosmetic issue therefore you will have to pay. Our GP's don't even do ear syringing any more.

GPs used to (I had one off 12 years ago) but it would be vanishingly rare now for a GP to do this. I’m now referred to hospital Derm for my moley issues.

GP recently refused to remove one for DH which was growing rapidly and bleeding regularly (ie he didn’t want it removed for cosmetic reasons).

He had to go private.

Just based on where it is there is a good chance it’s a third nipple rather than a mole. Not that that changes any of the removal advice you’ve been given.