Mole, Wart, and Skin Tag Removal: Do You Need a Dermatologist or a Cosmetic Surgeon?
If you’re considering having a mole, wart, or skin tag removed, one of the first questions you might ask is: Should I see a dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon? While both professionals can perform skin lesion removal, the right choice depends on a few key factors — including the nature of the lesion, your health goals, and cosmetic preferences.
This article breaks down the differences to help you make an informed decision in the UK.
Understanding the Lesions
Before exploring who to see, it helps to understand the skin issues in question:
- Moles are usually harmless clusters of pigmented cells. However, changes in size, shape, or colour can sometimes indicate melanoma (a type of skin cancer).
- Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are typically benign but can be contagious and unsightly.
- Skin tags are soft, skin-coloured growths that are harmless but may be irritating or cosmetically bothersome.
Dermatologist: The Medical Skin Specialist
When to See a Dermatologist:
- Medical concerns: If a mole is changing in colour, shape, or size — or if a wart or lesion is painful or bleeding — it should be assessed by a dermatologist first.
- Diagnosis: Dermatologists can perform a dermoscopic exam or biopsy to rule out skin cancer or infection.
- NHS referrals: If your GP suspects a lesion might be suspicious, they will refer you to a dermatologist on the NHS.
- Non-cosmetic removals: Warts, moles, and tags that are painful or medically necessary to remove may be treated through the NHS, usually by dermatology services.
Treatments Offered by Dermatologists:
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Electrosurgery or curettage
- Excision with biopsy
- Prescription treatments (for viral warts, for example)
Cosmetic Surgeon: The Aesthetic Expert
A cosmetic surgeon focuses on enhancing appearance and can perform minor surgical procedures with a strong emphasis on aesthetics and minimal scarring.
When to See a Cosmetic Surgeon:
- Cosmetic reasons only: If the lesion is harmless and removal is purely for appearance, you’ll usually need to go private — and a cosmetic surgeon is well-equipped for this.
- Private mole and skin tag removal: Cosmetic surgeons often use advanced techniques that prioritise a clean finish and minimal scarring.
- No need for diagnosis: If a mole or skin tag has already been assessed and found to be benign, a cosmetic surgeon can often remove it quickly and effectively.
Treatments Offered by Cosmetic Surgeons:
- Surgical excision with cosmetic closure
- Laser removal (for certain benign lesions)
- Electrocautery
- Radiofrequency removal
NHS vs Private Treatment
- NHS will typically only fund removal if the lesion is medically necessary — not for cosmetic concerns.
- Private clinics (whether dermatology-led or surgery-led) can offer removal for cosmetic reasons, often with shorter wait times.
So, Who Should You See?
| Concern | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Suspicious or changing mole | Dermatologist (NHS or private) |
| Diagnosis needed before removal | Dermatologist |
| Cosmetic mole or skin tag removal | Cosmetic Surgeon or private dermatology clinic |
| Warts that don’t respond to over-the-counter treatment | Dermatologist |
| Minimising scarring for visible areas (e.g., face) | Cosmetic Surgeon |
Final Thoughts
If you’re unsure about a skin lesion, it’s always best to have it assessed by a dermatologist first to rule out anything serious. Once confirmed benign, removal can be handled by either a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon — depending on your priorities and budget.
At Dr Ash Health & Aesthetics, we offer safe, private mole, wart, and skin tag removal with an emphasis on clinical safety and aesthetic outcomes. If you’d like to discuss your options, contact us today to book a consultation.