Proper Care After Mole Removal

• After having a mole removed, it is best to keep the wound raised above the heart to ease the pain and swelling and to help with the healing process, according to healthsquare.com.
  
  It is important to keep both the wound and the bandage clean and dry for at least 24 hours so you should not swim or soak the wound or do dishes if the wound is on the arm. If the bandage does become wet, unwrap it slowly and carefully. If it does stick, use warm water to gently loosen it. Once the bandage has been removed, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel before applying a new bandage.
  
  It is also important to clean the wound gently two to three times a day. Use a cotton swab dipped in a mixture of 50 percent water and 50 percent hydrogen peroxide. According to McLean Academy, an antibiotic ointment may be prescribed to be applied after the wound has been cleaned; if there are stitches, a follow-up visit to a doctor may be necessary to remove the stitches.
  
  

When to Call a Doctor

• It is important to call a doctor if you develop a high fever, any pain or swelling worsens or if there is any numbness or swelling below the wound area. Signs of infection include pus, a bad smell, swelling, redness or red streaks begin emanating from the wound.