When Should You Get Mole Removal?
If you have a mole or a few, it can be scary, unsettling, and cause panic to bubble up in you. Moles are notorious as the harborers of melanoma, commonly known as skin cancer. Your mind wanders to the worst-case scenario, and some may stay awake at night thinking about a possible diagnosis.
Thankfully, most moles are not harmful.
In fact, only 20% of melanoma cases arise from preexisting moles. But, taking care of your skin is important, and preventative measures are always a good idea. In this blog, we’ll discuss when you should have moles checked, signs of potentially dangerous moles, and how Skin Wellness can help you find peace of mind and stay safe.
When Are Moles Harmless?
Moles are brown or black spots on the skin that is small and flat, comparable to a freckle. Melanocytes, the cells in your skin responsible for producing the color or pigment in your skin, can cluster together and give rise to moles. Moles can appear different on everyone, but they are typically round or oval and has a smooth edge. Texture, thickness, and size can vary too. And it’s normal if they have additional hair growing at certain times.
Moles are extremely common, and most people do not have any issues with them. It is common for people to have between 10 and 40 moles on their bodies, but it is essential to get these moles checked out if they change in size, shape, or color. Continue reading to learn more about the potential risks posed by moles and the circumstances under which you should have your mole removed.
When Should I Get My Mole Removed?
If your mole has changed in shape, size, or color, you should almost certainly think about getting it removed or, at the very bare minimum, having it checked out.
A new or changing mole is the most common sign of melanoma skin cancer, a type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs in the body. If caught while it is still localized, the survival rate of melanoma is 99% in the United States.
We strongly recommend that you seek medical attention from an experienced doctor to have cancerous moles removed. We advise getting your mole checked out if any of the following apply.
- Varies in form or appears to be uneven
- Changes color
- Begins to itch, crust over, flake off, or bleed
- Becomes more prominent or elevated above the surface of the skin
The removal of moles does not necessarily protect against the development of skin cancer, contrary to popular belief. But, the removal of any suspicious moles is a beneficial preventative measure for your health. Some moles removed turn out not to be skin cancer, but others do, so it’s wise to err on the side of caution when it comes to moles.
Can I Get My Mole Removed if I Just Don’t Like It?
For some, you only and always think about moles when you look in the mirror. They can make you feel insecure and anxious in social settings. Even though most moles are completely safe, some people choose to have their moles removed for cosmetic reasons. Dermatologists can perform mole removals quickly and with minimal discomfort thanks to cutting-edge techniques. If you are unhappy with a mole, speak with your provider about different options for removal, and feel comfortable in your own skin.
Stress-Free Mole Removal
If you notice any signs of a dangerous mole or just want some extra reassurance, contact a dermatologist today. An expert can take a detailed look at the mole and decide if removal is necessary.
At Skin Wellness, we understand that any cancer-related medical conditions are frightening. Our dermatologists are ready to answer any questions you may have and examine any moles you are concerned about. Our team is dedicated to providing you with quality care and treatments, so don’t hesitate to stop!
Schedule Your Mole Removal at Skin Wellness
Follow a preventative regime for peace of mind at Skin Wellness! At Skin Wellness Dermatology, we know the importance of specialized training, advanced techniques, and state-of-the-art technologies for preventative measures. Call us at 205-871-7332 or contact us online today to learn more about mole removal and all our other services!