Mole Removal

What are moles?

A mole is a skin growth that is usually brown or black in color. They develop when melanocytes, the cells in your skin that create pigment, form a cluster instead of dispersing throughout your skin.

Moles appear during childhood and early adulthood. Over time, your moles might become slightly raised, or their color may change. It’s also possible for moles to remain the same size, shape, and color throughout your life, or to fade away on their own.

The vast majority of moles are harmless, but if you notice changes in a mole, you should see one of the board-certified dermatologists at Integrated Dermatology of Reno for a skin cancer check. Moles that change in size, shape, or color can be cancerous. 

For most people, however, moles are simply an aesthetic concern. Fortunately, mole removal offers a fast and easy solution.

How does mole removal work?

Mole removal works by removing the cells that give the mole its distinctive color. There are several options for removing a mole. Your practitioner discusses the pros and cons of each approach during your visit.

Freezing

Liquid nitrogen can be placed on a mole to immediately freeze the cells, which effectively kills them and causes them to shed from your skin. 

Heating

Your practitioner may recommend using electric current to burn the outermost layers of a mole. It can take more than one visit to complete this process, as only a minute amount of tissue is treated to preserve as much healthy skin as possible. 

Shaving

This approach uses a scalpel to shave off thin layers of the affected skin. It might take more than one visit to completely remove a mole through shaving. 

Excision

This approach uses a scalpel to remove more tissue than shaving. The skin is then stitched together and allowed to heal. 

When you come in for your consultation, you can learn more about the various options for mole removal.

When should I consider mole removal?

Many people consider their moles to be part of what gives them their unique appearance. However, if a mole bothers you or makes you feel uncomfortable about the appearance of your skin, mole removal is always an option. 

Some raised moles can become irritated by clothing that rubs against them or creates friction. Removal can prevent bleeding or chafing.

Of course, if you notice changes in a mole, it could be a sign of skin cancer and should be assessed by your dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of Reno. A simple test can determine if cancer is present, and removal is almost always the recommended treatment. 

If you’d like to learn more, book a visit at Integrated Dermatology of Reno online or by phone today.