Moles should be monitored closely for any signs of cancer such as asymmetrical shape, irregular borders, changes in color, or increase in size. These changes suggest that the mole may be cancerous. If you are concerned about your mole, then we can evaluate it and do a biopsy if needed in the office to see if cancer is present.
Treatment of non-cancerous moles is not necessary. However in some instances the mole may be raised and in an area where it can get inflamed from rubbing on clothing such as under bra straps of women or by rubbing against other skin, such as armpits or the groin. As well, one may want a mole removed for cosmetic reasons.
A mole can then be removed by either shave excision or excisional surgery. Both are done under local anesthesia where we will numb the area with lidocaine. In a shave excision a small blade is used to shave the mole flat. It does not require stitching and heals on its own. In excisional surgery, the mole is cut out and the edges are sutured closed. Both are performed in our offices.
