Thinking about mole removal can send shivers down your spine.
However, it is necessary to stay proactive about your health. A mole can appear anywhere on the skin and is caused by cells in the skin growing in clusters instead of spreading out. These cells are called melanocytes and are responsible for the pigmentation of your skin. Mole growths are usually brown or black in colour and may darken due to sun exposure or pregnancy.
Moles can be a risk for skin cancer; go see your doctor if you notice any change in colour, size, and shape of your mole.
Many individuals do not see the risk your moles present. Some have had them all their life and forget to check if there are any abnormalities forming that can be linked to melanoma.
Many people also hate the look of moles and attempt to remove them themselves, causing physical harm and severe scarring. The main problem with removing a mole or skin tag at home is that you will not know if it is a benign lesion or a malignant one. A dermatologist will remove the mole or skin tag and send it off to the lab to perform a biopsy to determine if it is cancerous and inform you of the next steps. Removing a mole or skin tag at home can leave the cancerous cells behind, allowing them to spread into your bloodstream and other organs.
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer because of how rapidly it can spread and multiply. Seeing your doctor or dermatologist can potentially help you catch a cancerous growth at an early stage, which allows you to seek treatment to prevent further spread.
Although most people will not need to have their moles treated, some may experience discomfort from the mole rubbing against clothing. Others may wish to remove them for cosmetic purposes. Serious concerns relating to skin cancer often require the removal of the mole and sometimes the skin around it.
To prepare for a mole removal or to determine if you need your mole looked at by a dermatologist, learn what the process looks like:
Self-Check Your Skin
Prior to your appointment, you should examine your moles by following the ABCs of melanoma. Inform your dermatologist of any of the following symptoms:
Dermatologist Exam
During your appointment, your dermatologist will determine whether you need removal and a biopsy. If an abnormal mole is noted, your doctor will ask you to closely monitor it or recommend you to have it removed and sent for a biopsy.
If you wish to remove the mole for cosmetic purposes or because it causes discomfort, you can request a biopsy to be performed.
The Procedure
The area will be measured, mapped, and sometimes even photographed before the start of the removal. Your doctor will then begin by cleaning the mole area and applying a local anesthetic to ensure you do not feel anything during the cutting process. The needle will cause a slight pinch, but the area will be mostly numb.
There are a few different techniques that your doctor can use to remove your mole:
Waiting For Results
After your mole is removed, it will be sent off to a lab for any signs of cancer and other abnormalities. If your mole and the skin around it is healthy, you will not need further treatment. If the results come back with signs of melanoma, your doctor will speak with you about the next steps.
If you wish to get a mole removed for cosmetic purposes, our team at Glo Skin Medspa has the experience and expertise to answer any questions you may have. Our objective is to provide you with fast results while minimizing the risk of scarring. If you would like to learn more about our mole removal process please call (780) 481-9772 or book a free consultation.
How long does a mole removal procedure take?
A mole removal process can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 1 hour depending on the size and depth of the mole. Stitches may remain for 2-4 weeks post-removal.
Does a mole removal procedure hurt?
You may feel a slight pinch from the needle, but you will be mostly numbed during the remainder of the procedure. If you still experience pain, tell your doctor so they can apply more anesthetic before removing the mole.
What happens if my mole comes back malignant?
If your biopsy comes back with positive signs of melanoma, your doctor will notify you right away and talk to you about treatment plans and the next steps.
