Mole Treatment & Mole Removal in the Florida Keys
Does It Hurt to Have a Mole Removed?
A mole, which is a common growth on the skin, can change in its color or shape over time. When this happens, it could be an early indication of skin cancer. Check in with your dermatologist if you notice any signs of mole changes, and remember to regularly visit Keys Dermatology for your annual skin cancer screening. For some people, a changing or suspicious mole may be recommended to be removed by your dermatologist. In these cases, a numbing solution is used to prevent discomfort and pain during the procedure.
Some people try to remove moles at home, which is not advised. Trying to remove a mole on your own is not only painful, but it can also lead to severe bleeding or an infection. Always consult with a certified dermatologist if you have a suspicion or need advice on a skin growth removal treatment.
Do Moles Grow Back After Being Removed?
Some people experience a mole that grows back after a mole removal procedure. This is because some of the mole cells were left behind, causing the mole to recur. Ask your dermatologist about how to avoid mole regrowth after removal and what to do if you notice the mole coming back.
What It Means When a Mole Grows Back After Being Removed
A mole growing back does not necessarily have a connection with skin cancer in all cases. For some people, a mole growing back after surgical removal simply means that some of the mole cells were left behind in the skin, thus allowing them to regrow.
Is a Changing Mole Always Cancer?
Most moles will begin to appear on your skin during your childhood or teenage years. After, the mole–much like the rest of your skin–can experience changes throughout your life. Some moles change color, becoming darker or lighter over time. These minor changes in a pre-existing mole are often unrelated to melanoma or cancer. Instead, it’s simply a sign of the skin’s natural changing or aging over time. However, when there are more significant changes to the mole, including the symptoms of a cancerous mole listed in the section below, it’s important to get advice from your dermatologist. If you have any doubt about the changes you are seeing in your skin or in the color of a mole, always check with your dermatologist.
What a Cancerous Mole Looks Like
Many people have moles, but few understand what a suspicious mole looks like. If you notice changes in the color or shape of your mole, it may be an early indication of skin cancer. The best way to evaluate the health of your skin is by visiting with a dermatologist regularly and undergoing a regular skin cancer screening. If you notice changes in a mole, consult with your dermatologist, especially if one or more of the following symptoms are present:
- Itching mole
- Bleeding mole
- Growing mole
- Changing mole
- Asymmetrical mole
- Blurry edges of a mole
- Notched or otherwise irregular edges of a mole
What Happens When You Have a Mole Removed?
Safe mole removal begins with a certified dermatologist. Never attempt to remove a mole at home or by yourself. Instead, seek the guidance of a medical professional to avoid complications.
Your dermatologist may recommend removing a mole because it is precancerous, cancerous, or because it cannot be ruled out as non-cancerous. If you have been recommended for mole removal, make sure you ask your dermatologist if you have any questions about the procedure or what you can expect before and after mole removal.
During the mole removal procedure, your doctor will numb the area of your body around the mole. Then, a special blade is used to remove the mole cleanly and safely from the skin. After the mole removal, check back in with your dermatologist to let them know how you are recovering, especially if you notice the mole growing back or not healing properly.
How We Test Moles for Cancer
Sometimes, a dermatologist might be able to make an educated guess on whether a mole is cancerous or precancerous simply by looking at it. However, the only way to completely understand whether a mole is cancerous is to undergo what is called a mole biopsy for cancer. If your doctor recommends that you undergo a cancerous mole biopsy, you’ll be asked to come in for a brief appointment, during which a part of the mole is removed for testing. Sometimes, the entire mole is removed during a biopsy to avoid going through a second mole removal procedure. When this is recommended, the entire mole is removed for testing and then your dermatologist will follow up with you to confirm the results of your biopsy.
How Do You Know if a Mole Is Suspicious?
Here are some helpful tips to better understand the health of your moles and overall skin:
- Perform a skin self-examination regularly to check your skin for new moles and freckles
- Take pictures of moles that you want to keep an eye on so you can track any changes over time
- Keep a log of any concerns with your skin or moles so that you can notify your dermatologist during your visit
- Visit your dermatologist regularly and point out any skin and mole changes that you notice
- See a medical professional right away if you notice any changes that indicate possible cancerous moles
Patient Testimonial
“I was lucky to get appointment in 1 week due to some cancellation. Front desk was friendly. The nurse was super friendly and cool and Dr. V. as well. Very efficient and knowledgeable. I wish all the doctors and their staff in KW were as superb as this one.” – Jani B.
Contact Us Today
If you are concerned about a mole or need to have your annual skin cancer screening, visit Keys Dermatology. Our team of experienced, board-certified skin doctor and dermatologic surgeons who have been serving the Florida Keys community for over 25 years. Keys Dermatology offers mole removal and cares for every individual patient with a personal touch. Visit our warm and welcoming office today or schedule an appointment by calling 305.664.8828 or fill out the form on this page.