Most people have moles. For the most part, they’re just harmless spots on the skin that require no attention. But what happens when you notice a new one appear, or see an old one start to change? It’s natural to feel a bit concerned.
While some moles are removed for cosmetic reasons, the most important reason for removal is health. This guide helps you understand the key signs that show it’s time to see a specialist for surgical mole removal. Knowing what to look for is the first step toward peace of mind.
Why Consider Mole Removal? Cosmetic vs. Medical Reasons
There are two distinct reasons people choose to have moles removed. Sometimes, a mole is simply in a spot where it causes irritation. It might rub against clothing, get caught on jewelry, or just be in a place that affects a person’s self-confidence. In these cases, the removal is for cosmetic purposes and comfort.
The more critical reason for mole removal is medical necessity. The primary medical reason for mole removal in Tampa is to either test a suspicious mole for skin cancer or to remove a mole that has already been identified as cancerous. This is a crucial health procedure.
The Telltale Signs: When to Get a Mole Checked
Dermatologists use a simple guide to identify the warning signs of a suspicious mole. Remembering the “ABCDEs” can help you know when to seek a professional opinion.
- A for Asymmetry: One half of the mole looks different from the other half.
- B for Border: The mole’s edges are irregular, jagged, or blurry instead of smooth.
- C for Color: The color is uneven, with different shades of brown, tan, and black. Red or blue hues can also be a warning sign.
- D for Diameter: The mole is larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm), though some dangerous moles can be smaller.
- E for Evolving: You have noticed the mole changing in any way—its size, shape, color, or height—over a period of weeks or months.
Other red flags include a mole that begins to itch, bleed, or feel painful without being scratched or injured.
What to Expect: Types of Surgical Mole Removal
When a mole needs to be removed for medical reasons, there are generally two methods a surgeon will use.
- Surgical Excision: This is the standard method for a suspicious mole. The surgeon numbs the area, cuts the entire mole out, and removes a small margin of surrounding skin. The area is closed with stitches, and the mole is sent to a lab for a biopsy.
- Shave Excision: This technique is often used for raised moles that are less likely to be cancerous. After numbing the skin, a blade is used to carefully shave the mole off so it is level with the surrounding skin.
Your Trusted Choice for Mole Removal in Tampa
Choosing the right specialist is essential. Dr. Mahootchi is a board-certified surgeon with over 25 years of experience performing precise procedures that prioritize patient health and aesthetic outcomes. A professional evaluation is the only way to be certain if a mole is a concern.
If you have a mole that’s causing worry, the best step is a professional consultation. Schedule your evaluation today at Florida Face & Body to get clear answers and the peace of mind you deserve.