Mole Treatment and Removal in Sarasota, FL
Moles are skin growths that can develop anywhere on the body. They're often benign, but professional evaluation is essential when they become bothersome or show signs of change.
At SkinSmart Dermatology® in Sarasota, FL, our expert team, led by nationally recognized dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Callahan, offers advanced mole treatment and removal. Whether you're seeking removal for cosmetic reasons or due to medical concerns, we provide safe, precise procedures for healthy skin.
Moles vs. Birthmarks
Moles are growths on the skin that are usually brown or black. They form when too much melanin clumps together in a small skin patch.
A birthmark is a colored mark that appears soon after a baby's birth. It's generally caused by abnormal pigment cells or blood vessels.
Many moles and birthmarks are completely benign and pose no health risk. However, some people choose to remove them because they consider them unattractive.
Moles vs. Freckles
Moles and freckles seem similar because they are both caused by too much melanin in a localized area of the skin.
Both can be present at birth and can worsen with exposure to ultraviolet light. A few characteristics separate them, though:
- Freckles tend to be light brown or reddish, whereas moles are usually darker.
- Moles are often raised or have a slight texture when you run a finger across the skin. Freckles are flat.
- Freckles generally occur in clusters, whereas you might have just one or two moles in an area of the body.
- Freckles do not present a risk of skin cancer, whereas moles are associated with this disease.
Types of Moles
Moles can be divided into four primary categories:
- Congenital moles are present at birth. They may be any size. Larger congenital moles may harbor a risk of skin cancer and should be monitored carefully.
- Dysplastic nevi are moles that are considered abnormal. They are usually present at birth and tend to grow or change over time. Irregular borders, large size, and an uneven surface may indicate skin cancer.
- Acquired nevi are moles that develop throughout life. Acquired nevi aren't necessarily cancerous, but having a large number of these moles could indicate that your risk for skin cancer is higher.
- Spitz nevi are moles that are oddly shaped and colored. These moles are difficult to distinguish from melanoma skin cancer. They can bleed or leak fluid, appear raised or multicolored, and may need to be biopsied to ensure no cancerous cells are developing.
Is Having Moles Dangerous?
Moles are generally not considered dangerous. After all, a normal mole is simply an overgrowth of melanocytes in a very small area of the skin.
The concern related to moles is that DNA damage to the melanocytes, which often occurs due to sun exposure or the use of tanning lamps, can cause the cells to begin growing abnormally. The abnormal growth and division, in turn, could result in skin cancer.
If you have a mole that doesn't look like others or you have questions about spots on your skin, schedule a consultation with us at SkinSmart Dermatology.
Diagnosis of Moles and Birthmarks
A thorough physician-performed skin examination is necessary to determine whether a mole or birthmark needs immediate treatment or simply needs to be checked regularly.
A physician should examine a mole if it is:
- Larger than 6 millimeters
- Itching or bleeding
- Rapidly changing color, size, or shape
- Multicolored
- Located in a difficult-to-monitor area (such as the scalp)
Risk Factors for Malignant Moles
Certain factors may increase the risk of melanoma, including:
- Having fair skin
- Having a history of sunburn
- Having a family history of melanoma
- Excessive UV-radiation exposure from the sun or tanning beds
- Living close to the equator or at higher elevations
- Having several moles or unusually shaped moles
- Having a weakened immune system
Signs a Mole Is Cancerous
It can be challenging to tell if a mole is cancerous just by looking at it, but your doctor can learn a lot by examining your skin.
To confirm a skin cancer diagnosis, they may take a sample of cells or tissue. Pathology testing of the cells can discover the type and severity of skin cancer, or, conversely, rule out that disease.Â
If you notice a new mole or growth on your skin, watch it closely for changes in texture, color, size, borders, and symmetry. Schedule an appointment if you see any of these issues.
Treatment of Moles and Birthmarks
Depending on its depth, location, and color, as well as factors like the patient's skin type and age, treatment for a benign mole or birthmark includes:
- Laser or pulsed-light therapy
- Microdermabrasion
- Surgical removal
If a mole is irregular and needs further evaluation, the entire mole is removed, or a small tissue sample is taken for a biopsy. If only a small section of tissue is taken and diagnosed as malignant, the entire mole and a margin of normal skin will be removed.
Cutting into a malignant mole will not cause cancer to spread. This may be the only treatment needed if the malignancy is caught early enough.
A melanoma that has spread beyond the skin requires more aggressive treatment, which may include:
- Surgery to remove affected lymph nodes
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Biological therapy to boost the immune system
- Targeted therapy (attacks vulnerabilities in cancer cells)
Depending on the type and severity of the malignancy, a combination of treatments may be used. Possible, although rare, complications of surgical removal of moles and birthmarks include infection, allergic reaction to the anesthetic used, and nerve damage.
FAQs
How Often Should I Have a Skin Check from a Doctor?
Most dermatologists recommend receiving skin cancer screenings once a year. If you've previously had skin cancer or you have a higher risk of developing this disease, your doctor may advise you to come in more often.
Your annual exams should complement your monthly self-examinations, in which you observe all of the skin on your body, from your head to your toes.
When Should I Be Concerned about a Birthmark?
Most birthmarks are benign and present no cause for alarm. However, you may want to schedule a dermatology appointment for your child if their birthmark looks inflamed or infected or if it bleeds or itches. You may also want to have the birthmark checked if it changes in size, color, or texture. A dermatologist can discuss ways to treat a birthmark that could present a cosmetic problem as your child grows.
Is Mole Removal Painful?
Mole removal is generally a well-tolerated procedure with minimal discomfort.
Before the procedure, a local anesthetic is applied to numb the area. This ensures you don't feel pain during the removal process. However, depending on the technique used, you may experience mild pressure or tugging.
Once the anesthetic wears off, some soreness, tenderness, or a mild burning sensation may occur. This is temporary and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.
Can a Mole Grow Back After Removal?
Sometimes, a mole grows back after removal. The likelihood of this happening depends on the removal technique and whether all mole cells were eliminated.
Shave excision, which removes only the mole's surface, carries a higher chance of regrowth than excision with stitches, which eliminates the entire mole, including its deeper layers. If any mole cells remain in the skin, they can cause the mole to reappear over time.
Regrowth is not necessarily concerning. However, if the mole changes in color, shape, or size after removal, a dermatologist should evaluate it to rule out underlying issues.
Will Mole Removal Leave a Scar?
Any mole removal procedure carries the possibility of scarring. Scarring severity depends on several factors, including:
- Mole size
- Location
- Removal technique
- The skin's natural healing process
Shave excision typically leaves a small, flat mark. Meanwhile, surgical excision may result in a slightly more noticeable scar due to the need for stitches. Some areas of the body, such as the chest and shoulders, are also more prone to raised or thickened scars (hypertrophic scars or keloids).
What Is the Best Way to Care for My Skin After Mole Removal?
Proper aftercare is essential for promoting healing and minimizing scarring after mole removal. Here are some simple tips that can help:
- Keep the area clean and dry.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
- Cover the wound with a bandage.
- Don't pick at scabs, as this can lead to scarring or infection.
- Follow instructions on when to have stitches removed (if applicable).
- Protect the skin from the sun to prevent discoloration.
- Avoid strenuous activities that may stretch or irritate the wound.
Contact your provider if you notice any infection symptoms. These include increasing redness, swelling, pus, or prolonged pain. Most wounds heal within a few weeks with proper care and leave minimal scarring.
Why Choose SkinSmart Dermatology?
SkinSmart Dermatology offers expert mole treatment and removal directed by Dr. Elizabeth Callahan, a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Founded in 2005, the practice delivers unmatched skin care from a team of skilled providers.
Dr. Callahan's extensive experience and recognition by Castle Connolly since 2011 highlight her commitment to her patients' well-being. Whether addressing cosmetic problems or evaluating moles for skin cancer, she and the SkinSmart Dermatology staff combine precision, innovation, and personalization.
Schedule Your Mole Removal Consultation in Sarasota
If you have a concerning mole or birthmark and are seeking professional input, visit SkinSmart Dermatology.
Our providers, including Dr. Elizabeth Callahan, are experienced in mole treatment and have served the Sarasota community for over 15 years. We treat a wide variety of skin problems and care for every patient with a personal touch.
Schedule an appointment by calling 941-308-7546 or fill out the form on our contact page.
