Mole Removal

Moles typically remain unproblematic; however, with excessive UV exposure, skin cancer cells can mutate from the mole. Signs that these cells are mutating include irregular borders, color changes, and noticeable growth. If you have a worrisome mole, you should have it examined by a licensed professional as soon as possible. Thankfully, removing moles can prevent melanoma from progressing, allowing you to maintain a cancer-free life.

At-home mole removal kits and tools are usually a waste of time and money. In some cases, removing your mole at home can be dangerous and leave an unpleasant-looking scar due to skin irritation, chemical burns, and infection. We strongly discourage patients from attempting to remove a mole with a razor blade or scissors, which can increase your risk of infection and scarring. Any mole, no matter how benign it may appear, can be malignant. You should always visit a specialist for an evaluation, removal, and biopsy to ensure there is no sign of cancer growing.

Due to the nature of mole removal, you will likely have a scar. However, with Dr. Guy’s technically efficient and skilled approach, it should be barely noticeable. Most patients end up with an area that is slightly lighter than the surrounding skin or a thin, small line that will be either paler or darker than their natural skin tone.

Regrowth is always a possibility if a bit of the mole’s cells remain. Dr. Guy will do his best to remove the entire mole, but if it looks like it’s returning, he can excise the rest of the cells in a follow-up procedure. However, most patients find that regrown moles are much smaller, lighter, and less prominent than the original.

A reliable way to identify potentially cancerous moles is the ABCDE method from the Skin Cancer Foundation. These first five letters of the alphabet provide a valuable guide to warn against signs of melanoma advancements.

• A: Asymmetry – If you draw a straight line across the middle of the mole and the two halves don’t match, this is a clear sign that melanoma could be developing.
• B: Border – Melanoma borders will be uneven and may have scalloped or wavy edges. Benign moles are smooth and usually have even borders.
• C: Color – If your mole begins to change colors, with different shades of brown, tan, red, or black, have it examined as soon as possible.
• D: Diameter – Ideally, you’ll catch melanoma in its smallest stage. Moles that are the size of a pencil eraser or larger are typically cancerous.
• E: Evolving – If you continue to see rapid changes in a mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation, or notice new symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or oozing, these are signs of melanoma.

While scarring is inevitable, you can try some highly effective scar minimization methods after your mole removal procedure. First, follow all your post-procedural instructions for wound care. Dr. Guy and his aesthetic Texas team will provide topical ointments to apply to your incision to stave off infections and encourage your skin to heal.

Whenever possible, stay out of the sun. If you plan to go outside, wear sun protection, even if it’s cloudy. UV rays are the most significant contributing factor to scars becoming darker and more noticeable.

Apply topical scar creams or ask about rejuvenating procedures for plumper, smoother skin.