Mole Removal

 

Moles are bumps in the skin that result from a collection of melanocytes, which are the cells that produce pigment in the skin. While most moles are brown or black, occasionally they can be skin colored or even slightly pink.

Moles can be removed through various methods. If a mole is suspicious for skin cancer, your doctor will remove it and have it sent to a pathology lab for analysis; this is deemed a medically necessary procedure.

If a patient wishes to have a mole removed because of its appearance, then this is considered a cosmetic move removal. 

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How can a mole be removed? 

There are two primary ways of removing a mole:

  1. Shave removal: in this method, a mole is scraped off flush with the surrounding skin. While this is the easiest way to remove a mole, the mole can sometimes grow back. 

  2. Excision: during a mole excision, your doctor will use a scalped to remove the entirety of the mole, including any deep roots it may have. In this type of removal, stitches are required to bring the skin back together. 

Prior to removing a mole, whether it be for medical or cosmetic reasons, your doctor will discuss your options with you. 

Dr. Isabela Jones is a board-certified dermatologist, Ivy-league educated dermatologist, with years of experience in removing moles. Contact our office to schedule a consultation with her.