Moles are incredibly common among American adults. Many people have at least one; most of us have a dozen or more. These growths form when pigmented cells, those that give the skin its color, accumulate in a localized area. Moles occur anywhere on the body and are characterized by factors such as size, color, the area affected, and the layer of skin in which the mole has grown. They may be raised or flat and may appear red, brown, black or even flesh-toned. None of these characteristics necessarily indicates whether a mole is benign or not.
The biggest concern with moles is that they may indicate skin cancer; specifically, melanoma. At Dermatology and Cosmetic Laser Center, patients from the Huntington, NY area receive a thorough examination that assesses moles’ color, borders, size and more. Abnormalities in tissue are examined further under a microscope. When necessary, mole removal is planned.
Skin cancer is not the only reason to have a mole removed. We consult with many patients who wish to have moles removed due to their size and visibility or because they cause discomfort. In certain areas, moles can get caught up in jewelry or clothing, sometimes causing them to bleed. Regardless of your reason for wanting mole removal, you can feel confident that your experienced dermatologist can achieve optimal results through precision treatment.
One of the common methods of removing benign moles is to cut or cauterize them. The brief procedure is performed with local anesthetic for maximum comfort. After the mole has been successfully removed, the area will be dressed with antibiotic cream and a bandage. You will be given after-care instructions for cleaning and bandaging and scheduled for a follow-up visit if necessary.
If the removed mole had suspicious characteristics, it will be sent to a lab for evaluation by a pathologist and our staff will contact you with results or schedule you for a return visit. Additionally, if sutures were placed to close the wound, we will arrange an appointment for removal, as needed. If at any time in the healing process the treatment becomes red, swollen or painful, an examination should be scheduled.
You do not need a special reason to have a mole removed. Explore your options for precision care with Dr. Roger Koreen. Call (631) 417-3300.
