The appearance of a mole isn’t necessarily a sign of trouble. It’s only when moles look atypical, with rough edges and irregular shapes, that they should be seriously investigated. At Sagebrush Dermatology, we evaluate all kinds of different skin growths and offer treatment should they look irregular. If you have an unusual mole on your body, a shave removal or surgical excision treatment may be right for you.
What Are Moles?
Moles also referred to as “nevi,” are common skin growths. They look like small, dark brown spots and are caused by clusters of pigment-forming cells (melanocytes). Most people have 10-40 moles that appear during childhood and change or fade over time. These growths are harmless in most cases but can have the potential to become cancerous. Being aware of changes in your moles and other pigmented patches is essential to detecting skin cancer, especially malignant melanoma.
How to Tell if a Mole Is Cancerous
A mole may be cancerous if it is unusual in color, shape, or texture. Following the ABCDE guide below when evaluating moles can give you a better sense of their nature.
- Asymmetry – Moles that are inconsistent in shape, i.e., one half is not like the other half, could be dangerous.
- Border – You may need treatment if they have irregular, notched, or scalloped borders.
- Color – You may need testing if your mole has changed color, has many colors, or is uneven in color.
- Diameter – New growth in a mole larger than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters) could be a sign of danger.
- Evolving – Be weary of moles that change in size, shape, color, or height and those that have developed signs and symptoms, such as itching or bleeding.
How to Get Rid of Moles?
Shave removal is often one of the best methods when it comes to the removal of moles. This simple procedure involves the use of a razor to remove growths. A treatment session is performed under local anesthetic and leaves little if any scarring. Surgical excision is an alternate method of removing moles. This involves the cutting and removal of the entire mole (as opposed to a shave). Both methods involve an evaluation of the removed tissue to check for signs of cancer.
Schedule Shave Excision for Moles in Mesa, Arizona
If you’ve noticed an irregular growth on your skin, it may be time to visit a dermatologist. Our team at Sagebrush Dermatology can provide you with the care and treatment you deserve. Get in touch today by filling out the form below or giving our office a call at 480-681-DERM (3376).