Cosmetic Mole Removal: Options for Clearer Skin
Moles are the most common type of skin growth
Almost everyone is born with one or more moles or develops them during their lifetime. Moles present at birth are known as congenital nevi (singular: congenital nevus), while those that develop later in life are known as acquired nevi. About 1% of people in the world are born with one or more moles. Lighter-skinned people have a tendency to have a greater number of moles than those with darker-skinned. Moles that appear in children aged 2 to 10 years old tend to be most prominent and persistent. Moles acquired later in childhood or during adulthood vary depending on sun exposure and may fade away later.
They can be caused by a variety of factors
Precise causes for the growth of moles on a person are hard to determine but generally they are caused due to genetic factors, sun exposure, immune status, or a combination of the same. People with multiple moles tend to have a history of other individuals in the family with moles.
Moles present on the body in many different ways
There is no standard appearance for a mole. They can appear on any part of the body. They may differ in their appearance from each other depending on the site on the body. They could be flat or raised, as large as an inch or more, or as small as a fraction of an inch. They could be round, oval, or have an unusual shape. Their color could be brown, grey, bluish, or black.
Mole treatment near Plano, TX
Are you looking for a dermatologist to remove your mole? You can rely on the expert services of Bluebonnet Dermatology. Call (469) 663-8838 to schedule your mole exam today. Take the next step toward confident skin health.
This is precisely what makes differentiating benign moles from more serious growths such as malignant melanomas (the deadliest form of skin cancer) difficult for the untrained individual.
Having moles examined regularly is important
It is important to examine moles regularly through self-examination or by visiting a dermatologist. This is recommended for a few reasons:
- Initially, a melanoma may look similar to a benign mole but over time it becomes more unstructured in appearance, and tends to become larger.
- People with a greater number of moles have a higher risk of developing a melanoma, than those with fewer moles.
- People with a family history of melanomas have moles that have a greater risk of developing into melanomas
A dermatologist can examine your moles with a dermatoscope and if necessary take a small sample by performing a biopsy to aid their diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moles
Can moles change color over time?
Absolutely! Moles can change color, becoming lighter or darker. While this can be a normal part of the aging process, monitoring changes and consulting with a dermatologist at Bluebonnet Dermatology if a mole’s color shifts significantly is important.
Are moles hereditary?
Yes, moles do have a genetic component! If your family members have a lot of moles or specific types of moles, there is a chance you might as well.
Do moles always stay the same size?
Not necessarily. Some moles grow or shrink over time. If you notice rapid growth or significant size changes, it is worth getting a professional opinion with a skin cancer screening at Bluebonnet Dermatology.
Can I develop new moles as an adult?
Yes, adults can develop new moles, but it is best to keep track of them. Any new mole after age 30 might warrant a check-in with our dermatologists.
What happens if I accidentally scratch off a mole?
While it might sting or bleed, scratching a mole off generally will not cause serious harm. Still, we recommend monitoring the area and seeing our team if it does not appear to heal properly.
Do moles always have to be removed if they’re suspicious?
Not every suspicious mole needs immediate removal. Dermatologists monitor it or perform a biopsy first to determine the best course of action and how to proceed.
Are moles related to sun exposure?
Yes and no. While sun exposure often leads to more moles or darker existing ones, many moles are completely unrelated to sun exposure and just part of your unique skin blueprint.
Can moles grow hair?
Yes, they can. Hair growth in a mole is totally normal because moles grow on skin, and skin has hair follicles. It’s a little quirky, but no need to be alarmed.
Do pets have moles like humans?
Yes! Animals, like dogs and cats, can develop moles, too.
Can stress cause moles to appear?
No direct evidence links stress to mole development, but stress can impact your overall skin health. It’s a reminder to take care of yourself and your skin, and to schedule annual skin cancer screenings with the team at Bluebonnet Dermatology.
How do I know the cost of my appointment for mole evaluation and/or removal?
Our front office team at Bluebonnet Dermatology works with new and established patients to help them determine their health insurance benefits. We accept many health insurance plans and can navigate your benefits alongside you to make all treatments affordable. So, the best and most definitive source of information is your own insurance company. We encourage all patients to contact their insurance company to understand the detailed benefits.
Who is located near the McKinney, Texas, area offering skincare services?
If you are curious about changes in a mole or want to have one removed because of its appearance or discomfort, our team at Bluebonnet Dermatology can provide the care you need. We invite you to call our office, as we are always accepting new patients and can guide you through your skincare journey!
Moles can be removed for medical or cosmetic reasons
Once diagnosed as benign, most moles are left alone since they are harmless. They may be removed to exclude the possibility of cancer development in the future, to remove an unsightly appearance, or if the mole presents an annoyance in daily life (for example, during shaving or combing hair).
Moles can be removed surgically, using excision, cryotherapy, or by performing a shave or a punch biopsy. Your dermatologist is best equipped to recommend the appropriate course of treatment.
