What It’s Like to Have a Mole Removed
- Posted on: Aug 30 2019
Mole removal is not your typical procedure. It’s not something that most people think much about and, understandably, not something that one really looks forward to. The idea of having a mole removed can be unnerving. However, it is sometimes a necessity to guard your health. The primary reason that people have moles removed is that the growth demonstrates suspicious characteristics, such as jagged edges or large diameter. In some cases, moles are removed for cosmetic reasons or because they cause discomfort. Regardless of the reason, mole removal is not something to fear.
Mole Removal or Biopsy?
For the record, many of the moles that are removed for cosmetic reasons are examined under a microscope. There is no reason to skip over the simple step of pathology testing when this process can ensure nothing gets missed. Having a mole biopsied means that some degree of tissue is removed for the sole purpose of examination. Moles are clumps of melanocytes, the cells the give the skin its pigment. Sometimes, these clusters of cells grow abnormally. A biopsy can determine if the mole contains cancerous cells.
The Mole Removal Process
Mole removal is conducted in our office, usually in less than an hour. To begin, the doctor cleans the skin with an alcohol pad or another cleanser. Then, the area around the mole is treated with a local anesthetic. The short injection should be the only part of the visit that feels even remotely uncomfortable. As most people know, getting a shot can feel like a small pinch. However, local anesthetic quickly eliminates painful sensations.
To remove a mole, a doctor may use a scalpel or other sharp instrument. Depending on the structure and characteristics of the mole, a slight amount of surrounding tissue may also be removed. The numbing medication makes the removal virtually painless. Patients should feel nothing outside of minor pressure. If a mole has deep roots that need to be removed, the procedure may conclude with a few stitches to close the incision site. A dressing may be placed to cover the small wound.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
If you have a mole that demonstrates suspicious characteristics, the best thing you can do is schedule a thorough skin cancer screening. We would love to see you in our Manhattan dermatology office. To schedule a visit, call 212.391.8600.
Posted in: Medical Dermatology
