New launch - Practice Whatsapp Channel - Join us today!
We have launched a new WhatsApp Channel to send timely and important updates, such as surgery updates and health tips, straight to your phone.It is a private and secure one-way channel. Join via : Join Our WhatsApp Channel - The Adam Practice

Get help from your GP by completing your health form

Key Information:

  • Medical Necessity vs. Cosmetic: We understand that moles, skin tags, or fatty lumps can be annoying or affect your confidence. However, there is a strict difference between what is “medically necessary” and what is “cosmetic.”
  • The “Building Inspector” Analogy: Think of the NHS as a building inspector.
    • Structural Damage: If a wall is falling down (cancer) or a door is jammed (a cyst causing pain or stopping function), we step in to fix it.
    • Interior Decoration: We do not smooth out walls or change the paint just because it would look nicer. If a lump is structurally safe, we sign it off as “Safe to Live With.”

What We Cannot Remove

Under current strict NHS funding rules, we generally cannot remove benign (harmless) lumps such as:

  • Benign Moles
  • Skin Tags
  • Fatty Lumps (Lipomas)

The “Catching” Myth: It is a common misconception that if a lump “catches on clothing” or “itches,” it qualifies for removal. In most cases, this is no longer true. Unless there is proof of recurrent infection or significant bleeding, we cannot use public money to remove it.

If you dislike the appearance of a lump that has been deemed safe, we recommend seeking a private provider.


When Safety Changes: The ABCDE Rule

If a mole, or a lump changes, the situation changes from cosmetic to a safety issue. Please check your moles using the ABCDE signs:

  • Asymmetry: One half looks different from the other.
  • Borders: The edges are irregular, jagged, or blurred.
  • Colour: The colour is uneven (different shades of brown, black, or pink).
  • Diameter: It is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
  • Evolving: It is changing in size, shape, or colour.

If you have a skin spot that you feel meets any of the above ABCDE signs, please let us know.

Discuss Your Concerns

What Happens Next?

If you have a mole, or a lump and are unsure if it is cosmetic or dangerous, please do not guess.

  1. Take a Photo: Take a clear, well-lit photo of the lump.
  2. Send it to Us: Contact us via our online service and upload the photo.
  3. The Review:
    • If it looks safe, we will tell you (saving you a trip to the surgery).
    • If it looks suspicious, we will fast-track you for a review.
Discuss Your Concerns

Further Information

Understanding Minor Surgery

Understanding Joint Injections

Minor Surgery Recovery: Is My Wound Infected?

Caring for Your Wound

Managing Bleeding After Minor Surgery

For more information about what we are not able to remove, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about cosmetic exclusion criteria

Last reviewed: 27 December 2025
Next review due: 27 December 2028