Why choose Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors?

Since 2005, we have dedicated ourselves to securing compensation for clients who have suffered at the hands of negligent cosmetic practitioners in cosmetic procedures of all kinds - not just mole removals gone wrong.

By using our specialist knowledge and vast experience in this niche area of law, we have achieved an unmatched success rate of approximately 95% for claims pursued after obtaining medical evidence.

If you have experienced a botched operation, then our empathetic and dedicated solicitors are ideally placed to help you win a mole removal claim and let you move forward with your life.

Our lawyers are here to help you secure compensation so you can get back to living your life. Our no win, no fee service means there is no financial risk to you for pursuing a mole removal claim with us. Discover what our clients have to say about our services and check out our ‘excellent’ approval rating on Trustpilot.

How long does the botched mole removal claims process take?

The length of time it takes to pursue a botched mole removal claim will depend on the specific circumstances of your case, including the complexity of the medical evidence and whether liability is admitted at an early stage. Some claims can be resolved more quickly, while others may take longer if further expert evidence is required.

You will be kept fully informed throughout the claims process, with clear updates at each stage. The aim is to progress your mole removal negligence claim efficiently, while minimising any unnecessary disruption to your daily life.

What are the signs that my mole removal procedure has gone wrong?

Thousands of mole removal procedures are carried out successfully in the UK each year without serious complications. However, when proper care is not taken, some people experience avoidable harm as a result of negligent treatment. This can lead to physical discomfort, changes in appearance, and emotional distress.

While mild redness, slight swelling, and minor scarring can form part of the normal healing process, certain complications may indicate that errors have been made during the procedure. These can include:

• Skin contour irregularity or indentations, where the treated area appears uneven, sunken or distorted compared to the surrounding skin, potentially indicating that too much tissue was removed or the procedure was not performed with appropriate care.
• Inappropriate or excessive scarring that goes beyond what would reasonably be expected and what was agreed prior to the procedure.
• Burns and blistering, particularly where laser or cauterisation techniques have been used incorrectly or with excessive intensity.

If you notice unusual symptoms, worsening pain, signs of infection, or cosmetic outcomes that appear significantly different from what was discussed beforehand, it may be appropriate to seek further medical advice and consider whether negligent mole removal has occurred.

How are mole excisions performed?

Mole removal procedures are carried out by a qualified medical professional or medical doctor, depending on whether the treatment is required for medical or cosmetic reasons. The technique used will depend on the type, size and position of the mole, as well as whether there are any clinical concerns.

Shave excision

Shave excision is commonly used for moles that are slightly raised above the surface of the skin. During this procedure, the mole is carefully shaved down to the level of the surrounding healthy skin using a sterile blade. This method is often chosen for cosmetic reasons and may be suitable for most moles that do not extend deeply into the skin. While shave excision can improve appearance, it may not always permanently remove moles if deeper cells remain.

Surgical excision

Surgical excision involves cutting out the entire mole along with a small margin of healthy skin. The wound is then usually closed with stitches. This method is often recommended when there are medical concerns or where it is important to permanently remove moles in full, including tissue beneath the surface. Surgical excision allows the removed tissue to be sent for further examination if required.

Laser treatment

Laser treatment uses focused light energy to break down pigmented cells within the mole. It is sometimes used for cosmetic reasons, particularly for smaller lesions. However, laser treatment does not always permanently remove moles entirely and may not be appropriate where there is any suspicion about the nature of the mole.

In some circumstances, other treatments such as cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen may be used for certain skin lesions, although this is less common for deeper moles. A thorough consultation with a medical professional should take place before any procedure to ensure the chosen method is safe and appropriate.

Your surgeon's legal obligations to prevent complications from mole removal surgery

When undergoing mole removal surgery, including procedures carried out due to concerns about skin cancer, your surgeon has strict legal responsibilities before, during and after the procedure. These duties are designed to minimise complications, ensure early identification of malignancy, and protect your overall health.

Before mole removal surgery

Before a mole is removed, your surgeon must:

• Carry out a thorough clinical assessment to determine whether the mole displays potentially suspicious features or signs of malignancy.
• Identify risk factors for skin cancer and take a detailed medical history.
• Arrange appropriate investigations, such as dermoscopy, biopsy, or histological examination where clinically indicated.
• Provide clear information about the reason for removal, including whether the procedure is cosmetic or medically necessary.
• Explain all material risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, delayed healing, recurrence, and scarring.
• Outline the expected healing process, so you understand what recovery should look like.
• Discuss alternative treatment options, where relevant.
• Obtain fully informed consent, ensuring you understand the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes before the mole is removed.

During mole removal surgery

During the procedure, your surgeon must:

• Perform the surgery in line with accepted medical standards and clinical guidelines.
• Use appropriate surgical techniques to reduce the risk of infection, unnecessary tissue damage, and excessive scarring.
• Ensure adequate sterility and infection control measures are in place.
• Remove and preserve tissue correctly for histological analysis where skin cancer is suspected.
• Accurately document the procedure, including the size, appearance, and location of the mole removed.

After mole removal surgery

Following the removal of a mole, your surgeon must:

• Provide clear aftercare instructions, including wound care, signs of infection, and when to seek medical advice.
• Explain expected scarring and healing timelines, helping you distinguish between normal healing and potential complications.
• Arrange appropriate follow-up appointments, particularly where the mole was potentially suspicious.
• Review and act promptly on histology results, especially where malignancy is identified or suspected.
• Make urgent referrals to specialist services, if skin cancer is diagnosed or further treatment is required.

If these legal obligations are not met and you experience avoidable harm, delayed diagnosis of skin cancer, or complications following mole removal surgery, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors has extensive experience in medical negligence claims involving mole removal and can quickly assess your case and guide you through the process with clarity and sensitivity.