Moles, or nevi, are natural skin growths that can occur anywhere on the body. They can vary in size, shape and color and occur individually or in groups. Depending on their appearance and location, they are even sometimes called beauty marks. There are different types of moles, ranging from congenital nevi, which are present at birth, to intradermal nevi, which form beneath the skin. Moles may differ in hue, appearing lighter or darker than your natural skin tone, and result from either sun exposure, hormonal changes, or genetics.
While some moles are more of a cosmetic concern, others could be cancerous. Moles commonly develop between childhood and young adulthood, though you should take note of any moles that appear after age 30 because it is more likely to be skin cancer. You also shouldn’t ignore any mole that changes in appearance.
If you suspect a cancerous mole that needs to be removed, don’t wait to get the care you need. Schedule an appointment with Berman Skin Institute as soon as possible.
Does Removing Moles Hurt?
Whether it’s for cosmetic or medical reasons, mole removal is generally painless since the procedure involves a numbing anesthetic.
Depending on factors like the size of your mole and whether your provider believes it is cancerous, different removal methods are available. Whichever one you undergo, there are options to ensure minimal discomfort and pain during and after the procedure.
Two common in-office methods are used to remove moles:
- Shave excision: For smaller moles, a shave excision is usually the best method. Your provider will numb the area so you don’t feel anything, then use a small blade to shave layers of the mole off until it’s gone. This method doesn’t require any stitches once the mole has been removed.
- Mole removal surgery: Like with a shave excision, your provider will use a local anesthetic so you don’t feel any pain while they remove the mole. Mole removal surgery, or excisional surgery, is a bit more in-depth because it cuts the mole and some of the surrounding skin using a scalpel. This ensures that any potentially cancerous area is completely removed. Once your provider finishes the procedure, they will stitch the area and perform tests to determine if the mole is benign or malignant.
Once your mole has been removed, it’s important to follow all post-procedure care to prevent infection. Try to keep the area as clean and dry as possible. It’s also best to avoid sun exposure while it’s healing.
No matter which procedure you undergo, it’s unlikely that your removed mole will come back. A qualified provider can ensure complete mole removal and provide follow-up appointments to monitor cancerous moles for signs of recurrence.
Can You Remove Moles at Home?
Some people report that home remedies have helped shrink or fade their moles or even remove them completely. However, attempting to remove a mole on your own is not a good idea, as it can lead to issues like infection and scarring. At-home remedies often lack proper sterilization procedures, and you may not remove the entire mole.
A potentially cancerous mole amplifies these risks. While some natural methods may be able to chemically burn a mole off, they can still leave behind melanoma.
Instead, consult a professional to ensure safe and proper mole removal. When a mole is cancerous, a dermatologist goes beyond the surface and removes some of the tissue beneath the mole to ensure all melanocytes are gone. At-home methods aren’t capable of going this deep, making them more risky if the mole is cancerous.
Does Insurance Cover Mole Removal?
Several factors will influence the cost of mole removal and whether it’s covered by your insurance. Mole removal is usually classified as either cosmetic or medically necessary. If you want to have a mole removed because you think it’s unsightly, you’ll most likely have to pay for the procedure out of pocket.
However, if a dermatologist suspects a mole may be cancerous, your insurance will most likely cover some or all of the cost. Other medical reasons for removing a mole include pain, bleeding, or signs of infection like oozing. The cost of the procedure can vary depending on the type of removal, as well as the placement and size of your mole. It can also vary depending on the provider’s specialty and fees.
Even if you do have to pay for your procedure out of pocket, many dermatology and cosmetic surgery centers will offer payment plans. That way, you can receive your treatment immediately and then pay for it over time.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you are unsure whether a mole is benign or cancerous, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist as soon as possible. By age 70, one out of five Americans will develop skin cancer. When caught early, though, melanoma can be highly treatable and curable.
Performing regular self-skin exams can help you catch any changes early on. It’s also important to schedule professional skin checks, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer.
Dermatologists use the ABCDEs of melanoma to diagnose a cancerous mole:
- Asymmetry (A): Moles that are asymmetrical or have two distinct halves should be looked at.
- Border irregularity (B): If a mole has an irregular or bumpy border, you want to get it checked out.
- Color (C): While moles can be different colors like brown or flesh-colored, keep an eye on moles that have different shades throughout.
- Diameter (D): Watch out for any moles that are bigger in diameter than the tip of a pencil eraser.
- Evolving (E): If you’ve noticed that a mole has evolved in either size, shape, or color over time, it’s best to have it checked out.
Prioritize Your Skin Health With Berman Skin Institute
If you’re concerned about a mole or want to have one removed for aesthetic reasons, turn to Berman Skin Institute. Our dermatology and cosmetic surgery center has several locations throughout Northern California, making it easier than ever to receive the best possible care. We serve the following areas and more:
- Palo Alto
- Roseville
- San Francisco
- Pleasanton
- Sacramento
- Placerville
- Walnut Creek
- Cameron Park
- Yuba City
Our team of dermatologists combines state-of-the-art medical technology and research to examine skin concerns and recommend the best treatment approach. With our patient-centric focus, you can experience peace of mind knowing we will do what it takes to accommodate your needs and foster a long-standing relationship.
To learn more about our comprehensive service offerings or schedule a mole removal, we invite you to book an appointment at the practice closest to you today.
