Mole Removal

If you have any new or changing moles, are repeatedly being cut with shaving, or are just sick of looking at them in the mirror, our medical providers at Skin Care Doctors can evaluate them and discuss treatment options for removal.

Why Remove a Mole?

A mole may need to be removed if it is suspected to be cancerous or causing discomfort or irritation. In some cases, moles may also be removed for cosmetic reasons. It is essential to have any suspicious or changing moles evaluated by a dermatologist to determine if they need to be removed.

All About Moles

Moles are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually brown or black in color and can be flat or raised. Moles are typically round or oval-shaped and can range in size from tiny dots to larger than a pencil eraser. Most people have at least a few moles, and they are generally harmless. Moles are caused by the clustering of pigment cells in the skin, and they can develop at any age.

Some people are born with moles, while others develop them later in life. Moles can also change in appearance, with some becoming darker or larger. While most moles are harmless, some can indicate skin cancer. It's essential to monitor your moles and watch for any changes. If you notice any changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole, or if it starts to bleed or itch, it's important to have it checked by a dermatologist.

Mole Removal Methods

There are several methods for removing moles, and the best plan for you will depend on factors such as the size and location of the mole and your personal preferences. Here are some standard methods for mole removal.

Surgical Excision

Often done under local anesthesia, this method involves cutting out the entire mole and a border of normal skin around it and closing the wound with stitches. This technique is typically used for larger moles or those suspected to be cancerous.

Punch Removal

During punch excision, a small, circular blade cuts around and under the mole after the skin is numbed with a local anesthetic. We may use a small stitch or two to close the wound, depending on the size of the mole and the location on the body. This quick and simple technique can remove moles from even the most delicate or hard-to-reach areas, leaving well-hidden scars.

Shave Removal

Shave removal uses a scalpel or razor blade to shave the mole off the skin's surface, leaving a flat surface after numbing the site with a local anesthetic. Unlike punch or surgical excision, shave removal does not involve cutting into the skin or removing a border of normal skin around the mole. The method is typically used for smaller, non-cancerous moles raised above the skin's surface.

Why Choose Skin Care Doctors?

It's important to note that not all moles need to be removed, and some moles may be best left alone. Choosing a qualified healthcare professional to perform any mole removal procedure will minimize the risk of complications. The dermatologists at Skin Care Doctors are experts in the techniques of removing moles and birthmarks. Whether you desire this procedure to be performed for a cosmetic reason or medical necessity to rule out potential skin cancer, you can be assured that it will be done nearly painlessly and with minimal chance of scarring. Contact our office today if you have a mole that you would like us to check out or remove.