Moles, or nevi, are growths on the skin caused by clusters of skin cells called melanocytes. Most moles are benign but may be removed for cosmetic reasons. Moles can be present from birth or may develop over time. Sun exposure is linked to the development of normal moles and to the formation of dysplastic, or atypical, moles. Changes in existing moles, or the development of new moles that are large, have irregular borders, or itch or bleed may be a sign of skin cancer.
Significance
Most moles appear during early childhood, and most people have 20 to 40 moles by the time they reach adulthood. Some people are more prone to mole formation and may develop more than 100 moles during their lifetime. These people are at greater risk of developing melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. Mole removal is becoming more common due the increased attention on melanoma prevention and treatment. Mole removal often is performed in high-risk individuals to check for the presence of abnormal cells.
Reasons for Mole Removal
Moles are removed for a variety of reasons. In most cases, benign moles are removed to improve appearance, especially if the moles are located on the face, neck, arms or legs. Moles may also be removed if they itch or become irritated due to clothing, jewelry or activity. In some cases, moles are removed for biopsy if skin cancer, such as melanoma, is suspected.
Types of Mole Removal Procedures
There are two primary methods of medical mole removal: excision, and excision with cauterization. Laser removal is a third option, but it is often ineffective, and moles have a high rate of recurrence when this treatment option is used. This is because the laser light is unable to penetrate deep enough to remove the entire mole. Excision involves shaving the mole from the skin with a scalpel. The wound is then closed with absorbable sutures, or a solution is applied to seal the wound and stop bleeding. Excision with cauterization procedures use an electrical instrument to burn the area from which the mole was removed to close it and prevent bleeding and infection.
Mole Removal Recovery
Recovery of mole removal depends on the type of procedure performed and the amount of tissue removed. When atypical moles are removed, most doctors also cut away a margin of tissue around and beneath the mole. This helps prevent the atypical cells from returning or developing into cancer. In most cases, antibiotic ointment must be applied to the wound to prevent bacterial infection, and the wound is covered for a period of several days. If sutures are used, the mole removal site must be kept dry for 48 to 72 hours.
Considerations
Complications following mole removal are rare. However, infection is possible, and any abnormal symptoms should be reported to a doctor immediately. Excessive discharge from your wound, bleeding, a fever higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, severe pain, or increased redness and swelling all are signs of a possible infection. Sometimes, moles may return even after removal. This usually is not medically significant but should be reported if the original mole was atypical.
Tags: skin cancer, atypical moles, Mole removal, mole removal, moles removed
