Moles (medically known as nevi) are often observed on the skin either alone or in groups. The quantity and size will vary from person to person. They are usually formed at birth or soon after birth (congenital moles) or later in life, particularly in the 2nd and 3rd decades of a person’s life (acquired moles).
Congenital nevi are small (up to 1.5 cm), medium-sized (1.5-20 cm), or large (more than 20 cm). They usually have hair protruding from their surface and a verrucous surface.
Acquired nevi are generally flat, brown spots that often protrude from the skin’s surface, develop hairs, and may later disappear. They can have a wide range of colors—from pink to blue, brown, and black.
Changes in the shape and color of nevi over time, especially after exposure to excessive sunlight or hormonal changes caused by pregnancy or contraceptive drugs, are considered normal.
As a rule of thumb, small moles do not pose any danger. The possibility of their transformation into melanoma (the most severe form of skin cancer) is proven in giant congenital nevi and atypical dysplastic nevi.
Dysplastic nevi are flat or slightly scarred, with asymmetrical, irregular borders, and vary in color from pink to brown or even black. Dysplastic nevi are often found in clusters in dysplastic nevus syndrome and appear in members of the same family.
Types of moles
It exists from birth, is large, and may contain many internal hairs. Large and rapidly growing moles of this type are at an increased risk of developing melanoma.
They may appear as small, dark spots on areas of the skin that are often exposed to sunlight and are characterized by their blue color.
The easiest and most effective way to investigate moles and check up for signs of concern is to regularly examine all parts of your body, especially those directly exposed to sunlight. Moles should be consistently checked and monitored by us or those close to us, where we may need help and do not have direct visibility (e.g., the back). Any changes in the characteristics of the mole, such as rapid color change, increase in size, or random bleeding, should instantly alert us to a biopsy and removal by a specialized doctor.
Moles are usually benign and completely harmless. However, they are often aesthetically unappealing. The moles tend to form in areas with constant friction such as the armpits or neck. One of the factors associated with their formation is obesity.
The only negative aspect of moles that protrude is their tendency to bleed and the irritation they cause. The doctor can remove them with a simple cryotherapy or cauterization procedure, leaving no scars.
Many reasons can motivate someone to remove a mole. The first is the risk of flaring up, forming on a frequently injured spot, or creating an aesthetic problem.
Laser treatment for removing a mole is chosen if the possibility of the malignant nevus has been ruled out. A comparative advantage of this method is that it leaves no scars or marks.
This is a simple and quick way to remove a mole. It is completed under local anesthesia (xylocaine). The mole is surgically removed in-depth, and then the wound is stitched using plastic surgery techniques.
In this case, the plastic surgeon removes the nevus through an invasive procedure along with some healthy skin around it. The removed part is then sent for a biopsy. Moles that should be removed using this method are generally small and flat and have shown symptoms of the potential to become dangerous.
All mole removal techniques may cause some discomfort, such as a stinging sensation when the anesthesia is administered. Of course, you will not feel any pain since you will be under anesthesia during the removal—whether by surgery or laser treatment.
A mole that forms on the eye is not rare and is usually benign. It is similar to the common mole that a person may develop on their skin. It appears on the front part of the eye, near the iris, or the lower part of the retina. The only reason it needs to be removed is to prevent it from causing discomfort when blinking or for purely aesthetic reasons.
Close attention should be paid to the size and shape of moles on the face. If you notice a sudden change in the appearance or characteristics of an existing mole, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Moles on the face are often mistaken for seborrheic hyperkeratosis, hemangiomas, and senile spots (age spots)—all benign lesions.
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FAQ
This is a well-known scenario that many believe to be true, but it is, in reality, a complete myth! In fact, the exact opposite is the case, meaning that if someone does not remove a suspicious mole, they risk it developing into skin cancer or melanoma. Therefore, when a doctor suspects skin cancer and recommends the removal of a suspicious mole, the patient should have no hesitation in undergoing surgery to remove it.
Melanoma is a malignant skin tumor that results from the uncontrolled proliferation of melanocytes. It is directly related to ultraviolet radiation and sunburn, resulting from genetic and environmental factors.
Melanoma progresses rapidly in its early stages and differs from other moles on the body. If it is diagnosed early and immediately removed, it is entirely curable. On the other hand, if a diagnosis is delayed, then its treatment will be quite complicated.
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As the years go by, it is perfectly normal for new moles to appear on the body. Their formation is the combined result of genetics and exposure to sunlight. It is also normal for children to develop new moles on their bodies, which may gradually grow as they age, just as it is common for new moles to appear with age.
Negligent and consistent exposure to sunlight is not only a key factor in skin aging, but it is also a causative factor in the development of melanoma and other types of skin cancer. To enjoy the sun without endangering our health, it is essential to follow sun protection rules all year round and not just during the summer months.
Laser mole removal is an appropriate method for removing benign moles. Once they have been thoroughly examined under a magnifying glass and if it has been determined that they do not carry any risk, they can be removed by laser. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the procedure with you and outline what to expect.
The price will vary depending on the type of nevus, size, location, and method used. The cost is generally low and can be an affordable option for many. You can request more information from your plastic surgeon. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case in detail.
Moles can be removed using two surgical methods. One is excision, after which stitches are applied, and the other is by shaving, in which no stitches are needed.
Generally, the plastic surgeon can choose whether to remove the mole with sutures or leave it without stitches; this decision will depend on how deep the mole is.
Mole changes that should raise concern and prompt a visit to the doctor include:
The above changes are assessed when there are more than two happening at the same time and occur over a period of 2-3 months.
Additional elements that indicate a malignant nevus outbreak are itching (itching), fluid discharge, bleeding, burning sensation, and ulceration, e.g., open wound.
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