The average person has over 10 moles on their body. Most moles are not considered to be a medical problem and though some are even thought to enhance beauty, occasionally a person may wish to pursue mole removal.
About Moles
Medically known as “nevi”, moles can be flat darkened areas, raised lumps of flesh colored, pink or darkened skin. Skin tags are a type of flattened mole that is simply a small flap of skin tissue. Some types of moles are present at birth while others appear in childhood. Still others may develop during adulthood and while most moles are not dangerous it is important to have them examined by a certified dermatologist to ensure that they are not a symptom of skin cancer. This is especially true if the appearance of a mole has changed size, shape or color as there is a type of skin cancer known as melanoma that can be fatal.
Reasons for Mole Removal
Some common reasons to pursue mole removal may include: bothersome appearance, irritating location, and concern that it is growing.
Bothersome appearance – While some facial moles may be thought of as “beauty marks”, many facial moles are embarrassing to the person who has them. Even if one maintains a perfect system of skin care, moles can be large and unattractive and some moles may even grow large amounts of hair in them. As a person ages, a small mole may grow slowly and may eventually begin to grow hair. Facial mole removal is a good option to improve the appearance.
Irritating location – Some may wish to have mole removal performed if the mole is in a bothersome location such as around the braline or waistband where it may be irritated by clothing. Having clothing or other objects constantly rubbing against the surface of the mole can cause pain and inflammation and can even occasionally result in the tearing of the mole skin.
Concern about size or appearance – As we age, many moles will get bigger. They may also change color. Board certified physicians often recommend a mole remover procedure to prevent the fear of developing skin cancer. Most moles will not develop into skin cancer but many people choose to avoid the risk and have moles removed just in case.
About Removal of Moles
Moles can be removed by surgery or by cauterization. If the patient has a large amount of hair growing from the mole, laser hair removal may be beneficial prior to the plastic surgery. Prior to surgery, the skin will be sterilized with a topical antiseptic such as Betadine or Hibiclens.
After injection of a local anesthetic such as lidocaine, the physician may excise the mole tissue by cutting it out with a scalpel. Depending upon the size of incision, stitches may also be required to close the wound. If cauterization is chosen, the dermatologist will use a specialized tool to burn away the mole tissue. Some physicians prefer a method that combines both scalpel excision and cauterization of tissues to reduce bleeding.
The mole removal wound will then be bandaged and after care instructions given. It is important that all post surgical instructions are followed to minimize the potential for infection and scarring so that the best possible outcome of mole removal surgery is achieved.