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What Are Moles?
Moles are clusters of pigmented skin cells, known as melanocytes, that appear as small spots or bumps on the skin. There are many different types of moles. They can vary in size, color, and texture, and are typically brown, black, or tan. While most moles are harmless, it is important to monitor their appearance over time, as changes in shape, size, or color could indicate a health concern. Moles can develop anywhere on the body, including areas exposed to the sun and areas usually covered by clothing.
What is Mole Removal?
Mole removal is a medical procedure designed to eliminate moles from the skin, either for cosmetic or medical reasons. This process is particularly beneficial for moles that are bothersome, located in sensitive areas, or show signs of being potentially cancerous. Mole removal can improve skin appearance and provide peace of mind by ensuring that any suspicious growths are thoroughly examined.
How Does Mole Removal Work?
Mole removal is typically performed using one of two techniques: surgical excision or surgical shave. In a surgical excision, the mole and a small portion of surrounding skin are carefully removed, while a surgical shave involves shaving the mole down to be flush with the skin. Both mole removal methods are performed under local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience.
After the procedure, the removed tissue may be sent for biopsy if there are concerns about skin cancer. Your provider will give you post-procedure care instructions to promote proper healing and minimize scarring.
When Should Moles Be Removed?
A majority of moles are benign, meaning that they do not pose any sort of health risk and are non-cancerous moles. If you do notice that a mole changes in color, size, or shape, however, this is a sign that the mole is cancerous, so you should see a doctor to have atypical moles checked out with a skin biopsy.
Otherwise, you can choose to have benign moles removed for cosmetic reasons. Many patients are simply unhappy with the appearance of an entire mole, especially if it is on a prominent or noticeable area like their face. In other cases, moles may be especially raised or in a sensitive area, causing them to become irritated or frequently catching on clothing or jewelry.
Deciding to remove moles is a personal choice and always an option if you want to get rid of it. To learn more about mole removal, visit Dr. Falcon at our Natrona Heights office, which is located 9 miles from Leechburg and 17 miles from Aspinwall.
“The surgery center nurses were so nice. They answered all my questions and helped me prepare for the big day. They even called me the next day just to check in on me.”
Healing After Mole Removal
To remove a mole, skin specialist Dr. Falcon will either use a surgical excision or surgical shave excision technique to physically cut the mole away from the surrounding skin. This is done after the skin is numbed using a local anesthetic. You should not need sutures following mole removal, as the incision for common moles will be quite small.
After mole removal, you can immediately return to your normal routine. Dr. Falcon can give you specific instructions on caring for the incision site to prevent infection or unnecessary scarring. Generally speaking, the wound should be healed within about two weeks and no further treatment is required on the healthy skin.
Is Mole Removal Covered by Health Insurance?
Cosmetic mole removal is generally not covered by health insurance, because it is not medically necessary. If the mole needs to be removed for a biopsy because it is suspected to be skin cancer, this will likely be covered by health insurance. If you have any questions about financing, you can call our office or contact us online for more information.
Mole Removal FAQs
Are moles genetic?
Can a mole itch and not be cancer?
Can moles be removed from face without scarring?
Do moles grow in clusters?
How do you clean a mole that is removed?
How do you stop moles from forming?
How long do you have to wear a bandage after mole removal?
Should I get moles removed?
When should you get moles checked?
Why do moles suddenly appear?
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about mole removal and whether you are a good candidate to have a mole removed, schedule a consultation with Dr. Falcon. Call our office at (724) 226-3900. Falcon Plastic Surgery’s Monroeville Office is conveniently located 17 miles from Downtown Pittsburgh and 10 miles from Irwin.
State-of-the art, on site surgical suite located in Natrona Heights, PA
Our suite is certified with the highest level of accreditation by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF).
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