7 Reasons For Removing That One Mole

• Posted on: Oct 30 2016
• By: Callender Dermatology

We all have them – moles, warts, dark spots – irregularities of the skin, most of which go unnoticed and are unimportant throughout our lives. They can appear anywhere on the body from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet. You might decide to have one or more removed because you find them unattractive. But there are times when moles in particular should be removed to protect your health.

Which spot is which?

All moles and other dark skin patches, such as “birthmarks,” are simply benign pigmented areas.

Moles

The patches that are tan, brown and black are considered moles.

Vascular lesions

These are the red, pink or purple spots, including “strawberry hemangioma”s and “port wine stains.”

Do you feel like you have too many spots to worry about them?

Most moles and other birthmarks are benign are harmless, but some can develop into cancer.

How do you identify those spots that I should have removed?

You don’t want to spend a lot of time checking your moles and worrying about them; however, if any of your pigmented areas begin to show any of these signs, consult your dermatologist:

1. If it is larger than about a quarter of an inch
2. If it itched or bleeds
3. If the color, size of shape changes rapidly
4. If it has multiple colors
5. If it is located where you can’t easily see and monitor it
6. If it is often nicked when shaving
7. If it is often irritated by other skin issues, products or clothing

How are they removed?

Here at Callender Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, we have several methods for removing or lightening benign and even suspicious-looking moles, birthmarks and other skin irregularities, including the use of:

• Lasers
• Pulsed light therapy
• Microdermabrasion
• Surgical excision

When Dr. Callender surgically excises suspicious spots, it may be in order to remove precancerous growths before they become a health risk or to have them evaluated for any possibility of cancer.

So make an appointment for a “spot check” today by calling: (301) 249-0970

Posted in: Basal Cell Carcinoma