Moles are usually harmless, but changes in size, shape, color, or texture deserve attention. At Waterside Dermatology, our doctors evaluate concerning moles and, when appropriate, provide removal options that ensure comfort, safety, and long-term skin health.
Identify Suspicious Changes and Remove Growths
Moles are common skin growths that develop when pigment-producing cells cluster together, often appearing as brown, tan, pink, or skin-colored spots. Most moles are harmless, but some can change over time or resemble skin cancer. A mole evaluation allows your doctor to examine concerning features and determine whether further testing is appropriate. If a mole is suspicious, irritated, or otherwise bothersome, your doctor may recommend removal.
Signs & Symptoms of Suspicious Moles:
- Changes in size, shape, or color
- Asymmetrical appearance
- Irregular or poorly defined borders
- Multiple colors within one spot
- Increasing size or diameter
- New or changing spots in adulthood
- Itching or tenderness
- Bleeding or oozing
- Crusting or scaling
- Changes in texture or elevation
- A sore that does not heal
- A spot that looks different from your other moles
What Causes Moles?
Moles develop when melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment, grow together in clusters rather than being distributed evenly throughout the skin. Many moles appear during childhood or adolescence, while others develop later. Genetics can influence how many moles you have, and UV exposure may contribute to their development and changes in their appearance over time.
Several factors can influence your likelihood of developing moles or experiencing changes in existing ones, including:
- A family history of numerous moles
- Frequent or prolonged sun exposure
- A history of sunburns
- Use of indoor tanning beds
- Having fair or sun-sensitive skin
- Hormonal changes during puberty or pregnancy
- Increasing age and cumulative UV exposure
- A genetic tendency to develop atypical moles
Mole Evaluation and Removal
Your evaluation begins with a careful examination of the mole, including its size, shape, color, borders, texture, and any recent changes. Your doctor will ask when you first noticed it and whether it has grown, changed, bled, itched, or become uncomfortable. Your personal and family history of atypical moles or skin cancer may also be discussed.
If mole removal is recommended, the method will depend on the mole’s characteristics, location, and reason for removal. Your doctor may remove the mole by shaving it at the skin’s surface or surgically excising it, depending on what is appropriate. Suspicious tissue may be sent to a laboratory for examination, which may determine whether additional care is necessary.
FAQs
Does Having an Unusual Mole Mean I Have Skin Cancer?
No. Many unusual-looking or atypical moles are benign. However, certain changes can be associated with melanoma and other skin cancers. Your doctor can examine the area and determine whether monitoring, removal, or further testing is appropriate.
Can I Have a Mole Removed if It Isn’t Suspicious?
Possibly. A benign mole may still be bothersome if it catches on clothing, becomes repeatedly irritated, or concerns you cosmetically. Your doctor can evaluate it and discuss whether removal is appropriate based on its location and characteristics.
Will My Removed Mole Be Tested for Skin Cancer?
If your doctor removes a mole because it has suspicious features, the tissue may be sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination. Your doctor can then explain whether further testing is recommended and discuss the results with you afterward.
Can a Mole Grow Back After Removal?
Some moles may recur if pigment-producing cells remain in the skin after removal. If you notice pigmentation or growth returning at a previous removal site, have your doctor evaluate the area.
Stay Ahead of Concerning Skin Changes
If you’ve noticed a mole that looks different, has changed, or simply concerns you, it’s worth getting it checked. Call Waterside Dermatology to schedule a mole evaluation and removal in Bradenton, FL, and get clear answers about the next step for your skin.
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