Moles are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on your body. They may be signs of skin cancer or precancerous conditions. In this case, your mole may need to be removed and examined by a dermatologist.
Here are some of the signs that you should have your mole removed and what to expect from the removal procedure.
What Are the Signs That You Should Have Your Mole Removed?
Some changes may occur to a mole if it becomes cancerous or precancerous. These changes do not automatically indicate cancer, but you should see your dermatologist if you notice any of the following changes:
- Asymmetry: this occurs when your mole appears lopsided instead of symmetrical.
- Border: this happens when the mole's border looks scraggly, faded, or irregular.
- Color: a mole that starts to take on a variety of hues may be cancerous or precancerous.
- Diameter: when the width of your mole is growing, there could be a problem.
- Evolution: if the mole is starting to evolve, changing its texture, shape, or size, you should visit a doctor.
These indications are known as the ABCDE rule. They are used to detect melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer that can develop from moles. Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.
Other possible signs of melanoma or other skin cancers include moles that itch, bleed, become inflamed, or ulcerate. You should also pay attention to any that look different from your other moles, or those appearing as you grow older.
This is What to Expect From the Mole Removal Procedure
Before a mole removal, your dermatologist may sample the mole tissue and have it reviewed by a lab. If the test results indicate cancer, mole removal may be necessary.
There are different methods for removing moles, depending on their size, position on the body, and type. The most common removal methods are:
- Shaving: the provider uses a razor blade to shave off the mole and the skin around it.
- Punching: the doctor applies a punch tool over the mole and scoops out the tissue.
- Removing by scalpel: the dermatologist uses a scalpel to cut out the mole and the skin around it.
Before performing any of these methods, your dermatologist numbs the area around the mole to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure. You will feel no pain.
To learn more about mole removal, schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in your local area.
