Having a mole removed for medical or cosmetic reasons can be a scary experience if you do not know what to expect. Dr. Vivian Bucay, a dermatologist in San Antonio, can relieve your fears about your mole removal procedure by helping you understand what to expect.
What is a Mole?
A mole is a tiny skin growth. It is made up of multiple cells that are responsible for the production of color. These cells are what give a mole its color. Moles typically appear brown in color, but can also be flesh-colored, black, or blue.
Moles most commonly appear on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun, such as arms, legs, and face, but can found anywhere from head to toe. The average person can have anywhere from 20 to 100 moles on their body.
Moles are relatively harmless. They are not painful and rarely itch. Sometimes a mole can be an early indicator of skin cancer. If it is linked to skin cancer, the mole may be painful or itch.
Why is Mole Removal Needed?
There are two reasons for mole removal. A mole may need to be moved for medical reasons or for cosmetic purposes.
A mole may need to be removed if there is a reason to suspect a case of skin cancer. Moles that appear blurry, asymmetrical, change colors, or are bigger than a pencil eraser may be an early indicator of skin cancer. Removing the mole allows Dr. Bucay to send it to a lab for analysis.
Another reason for removing the mole is because it is causing you discomfort. Sometimes moles may appear slightly raised. This can often cause them to catch on clothing or jewelry. When this happens, it can be painful. Dr. Bucay may wish to removal the mole if it is causing you discomfort.
The last reason for undergoing a mole removal procedure is cosmetic in nature. If you are not happy with where a mole has appeared, it can be removed.
How is a Mole Removed?
There are a number of ways to remove a mole. Dr. Bucay will work closely with you to find the best mole removal procedure for your current needs.
Some ways to remove a mole include shaving it off, freezing it with liquid nitrogen, or burning it off with electrical currents. Mole removal procedures are relatively painless, but even so Dr. Bucay will make sure it is done in a way that is comfortable for you.