How Much Is Mole Removal?

That mole on your cheek, your shoulder, your back… has it always been there? Maybe it’s new, maybe it’s changed, or maybe you’re just plain tired of noticing it every time you look in the mirror. For some, mole removal is about peace of mind and health. For others, it’s about comfort or confidence. Either way, cost is often the first question people ask before booking a consultation. In this blog, we will cover the most common reasons for mole removal, the procedures available, cost factors, insurance coverage, and financing options for the same. 

Why Do People Get Moles Removed?

Mole removal is a common request for both cosmetic and medical reasons. Many people find that a mole, especially if raised or in a visible spot, can rub against clothing or jewelry or simply detract from their desired appearance. Others need mole removal because the mole shows changes such as itching, bleeding, or irregular shape and color that may signal a risk of skin cancer.

The distinction between cosmetic and medical reasons is crucial since it influences insurance coverage and treatment approach. Some of the typical reasons include:

• Cosmetic concerns: Moles that affect self-confidence or physical comfort.
• Medical necessity: Suspicious or changing moles that could potentially be melanoma or other skin cancers.
• Symptoms: Bleeding, itching, rapid growth, or inflammation around the mole.

Types of Mole Removal Procedures

When it comes to removing a mole, several safe and effective medical options are available. The best method depends on factors such as the mole’s size, depth, location, and whether it needs to be tested for cancer.

• Surgical Excision: This is a common technique where the mole is cut out completely, including a small margin of healthy skin. Stitches are usually required to close the wound. It’s ideal for larger or suspicious moles that require biopsy.
• Shave Excision: For raised moles, the surgeon shaves off the mole from the surface of the skin. This procedure typically doesn’t require stitches and has a quicker recovery time.
• Laser Removal: This method uses focused light beams to break down the pigment and tissue of smaller, flat moles. It’s less invasive and often preferred for cosmetic removal, especially on visible areas like the face.
• Cryotherapy (Freezing): Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze and destroy the mole tissue. It’s best suited for small, superficial moles and usually involves little downtime.
• Electrosurgery: This technique uses a controlled electric current to burn away the mole. It’s commonly combined with other methods and is effective for small benign moles.

Each procedure has its advantages and limitations. Consulting a dermatologist helps determine which method is right for you.

What Factors Influence the Price of Mole Removal?

The cost of mole removal is not fixed. It depends on several factors, including the method of treatment, the size and location of the mole, the provider performing the procedure, and whether additional testing or insurance coverage applies:

• Method of Removal: Shave excision, surgical excision, cryotherapy, and laser removal each come with different levels of complexity and costs. Surgical procedures generally fall on the higher end.
• Size, Depth, & Location: Smaller moles in less sensitive areas are usually less expensive, while larger or deeper moles, especially those on the face or scalp, may require more expertise and time.
• Pathology (Biopsy) Fees: If the mole is sent for biopsy, expect an additional $100–$300 or more, depending on the lab and testing requirements. Always ask if that’s included.
• Where the Procedure Happens: A cozy in-office same-day removal is usually easier on your wallet than a hospital outpatient setup. Facility fees matter. 
• Geography & Provider Credentials: Costs are often higher in major cities or when performed by board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons, compared to general practitioners in smaller markets. 
• Insurance vs. Cosmetic vs. Medically Necessary: Insurance typically does not cover cosmetic mole removal. However, removals performed for medical reasons, such as suspicion of malignancy, are often at least partially covered.
  

Average Cost of Mole Removal in the U.S.

When it comes to cost, mole removal in the United States can fall within a fairly broad range. On the lower end, simple procedures may cost just over a hundred dollars, while more complex removals can reach into the thousands. The final price depends on factors such as the method used, the location of the mole, and whether additional lab testing is required.

According to CareCredit, national averages by technique break down as follows:

• Shave removal: around $151 (range $116–$288)

• Surgical excision: about $325 (range $251–$583)

• Cryotherapy: roughly $209 (range $161–$392)

• Laser removal: about $531 (range $411–$1,033)

GoodRx reports that most removals typically fall between $150 and $1,500, with costs rising for more complex procedures or when removals are done in a hospital or surgical center. For example, large mole excisions performed in an outpatient facility can cost several thousand dollars.

In Washington State specifically, the average price for a surgical excision is estimated at $367 (CareCredit data). This provides a helpful benchmark, though actual fees still vary by provider and clinic setting.

Financing Options for Mole Removal

Insurance usually covers mole removal only if it’s medically necessary—for example, if a doctor suspects the mole might be cancerous or causing health issues. Procedures deemed cosmetic, like removing a mole just for appearance, are generally not covered and must be paid out of pocket. But many clinics offer flexible financing to help manage costs. At Northwest Face & Body, for example, patients can access payment plans and financing through trusted companies like CareCredit and United Medical Credit. These options allow you to pay for your procedure over time with low or no-interest promotional plans.

CareCredit is a popular healthcare credit card accepted at many providers nationwide, enabling you to cover mole removal and other health or cosmetic procedures conveniently. Similarly, United Medical Credit offers simple applications and flexible loan terms, even for patients with limited credit history.

Final Word

Mole removal costs in the United States vary from approximately $150 to over $1,500, depending on procedure type, provider, and insurance coverage. While cosmetic removals remain an elective expense, medically indicated procedures are often partially or fully covered by insurance. Obtaining a consultation and a written estimate from a qualified provider is the most reliable way to understand the exact costs involved.

Say Goodbye to Unwanted Moles with Expert Care

Don’t let unwanted moles affect your confidence or comfort any longer. At Northwest Face & Body in Kirkland, Dr. Young delivers safe, precise mole removal with results designed to look natural. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward clear, confident skin.