Have you noticed a few suspicious-looking moles on your skin? Have you considered getting a mole removed for personal reasons? Mole removal is a very common and simple treatment that can usually be done in one office visit at the Dermatology and Skin Care Associates in West Chester, Ohio. We are here to ease your mind and let you know exactly what to expect when it comes to mole removal.
What Are Moles?
Before we get into mole removal, let’s talk about what they are. Moles are blemishes on the skin that are small and flat or slightly protruding and usually darker than the surrounding skin. The Dermatology and Skin Care Associates in West Chester, Ohio can evaluate, remove, and test any moles you are concerned about.
How Often Should I Get a Skin/Mole Check?
We recommend you get a check-up once a year or anytime you have a concern. Due to the possibility of skin cancer, mole checks for any that are irregular or seem to have changed are highly recommended. Testing suspicious big moles that fit the ABCDEs of skin cancer can ensure you are not at risk. When it comes to skin cancer, early detection is key to effective treatment.
What Are the ABCDEs of Skin Cancer?
If you notice any of these signs, it is time to get your moles checked:
- Asymmetry: one side of the mole is different from the other
- Border: the border of the mole is irregular or poorly defined
- Color: the color of the mole is inconsistent
- Diameter: the mole is bigger than 6mm or the size of a pencil eraser
- Evolving: the mole changes color, shape, or size over time
How Is a Diagnosis Determined?
Your dermatologist will evaluate any big moles by sight and note any irregularities. If a mole shows any signs of possible skin cancer, it will be removed and sent in for a biopsy to confirm if it is benign, atypical, or malignant.
Benign Moles
A benign mole is non-cancerous and poses no health risks.
Atypical Moles
Although an atypical mole is benign, it is pre-cancerous and poses an increased risk for melanoma. Your doctor may recommend its removal to stay on the safe side.
Malignant Moles
A malignant mole is cancerous and must be removed and treated. The sooner a malignant mole is discovered, the better the success rate of the necessary treatment. Treatments are also often simpler in the very early stages of discovery.
Can I Remove a Mole for Cosmetic Reasons?
Yes! We have experience with all kinds of cosmetic mole removal. No matter what your reason is for having a mole removed, we will take care of your needs.
Where Do I Start?
You can schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists at Dermatology and Skin Care Associates in West Chester, Ohio. You will be in great hands as they apply their caring expertise and address your concerns.
What Methods Are Used for Mole Removal?
There are four methods typically used to get rid of big moles. The method chosen will depend on the type of mole and the situation. Your doctor will go over your options and discuss the best course of treatment for your case.
1. Shave Excision
The shave excision method is used when the mole sits on top of the skin. The mole is carefully shaved off with a blade, and no stitches are required.
2. Punch Excision
During the punch excision method, a small tool with a round blade is used to pull out the mole. This usually requires one to two stitches.
3. Surgical Excision
Sometimes, surgical removal is necessary, and the number of stitches depends on the size of the mole. This method also takes out the entire mole but goes a bit deeper into the skin layer.
4. Laser Removal
Laser removal is good for small black or brown moles that do not protrude above the skin. Fully removing the mole typically requires one to three laser treatments.
Will I Be Comfortable?
We do our best to keep you comfortable during your visit. We start all removal methods by cleaning the area to be treated and applying a local anesthetic. Many of our patients are surprised at how great they feel during and after treatment!
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
After you have your mole removed, you will be sent home with basic care instructions and will likely heal in a few days or a few weeks, depending on the size of the mole and the method used.
Will I Get a Scar?
Depending on the area and type of mole, some are more likely to leave a scar than others. Your dermatologist will be happy to address the possibility of scarring for you and answer any of your questions.
Is Mole Removal Covered by Insurance?
Mole removal that is done to test any suspicious-looking lesions or to get rid of a cancerous lesion is usually covered by most insurance policies. However, removal is not usually covered when done for cosmetic reasons.
Get Checked and Get Peace of Mind
If you are long overdue for a mole check or finally ready to get rid of an unwanted mole, contact us at the Dermatology and Skin Care Associates in West Chester, Ohio to schedule your appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists today. Now is the best time to take control of your health!