What you should know about mole removal

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Many of us refer to any dark spot on the skin as a mole. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin. Moles range in appearance and size. They are usually brown in color and can be various shapes. Some moles are alone and others are grouped together. Some have hair in them while others don't. Some people are born with moles. Others find moles appearing over time.

One factor in the development of a mole is heredity, or the DNA factor.


Another development of moles may be the result of years spent in the sun. If a mole is the result of sun tanning you may want to consider removing the mole because it could be associated with skin cancer.

Doctors or dermatologists (skin specialists) may recommend a mole be removed especially if they appear to be pre-cancerous. If this is recommended by a doctor and you would like to have the mole removed you should speak with your doctor about the procedure that will be used.

Another reason that you may want to consider the removal of a mole is if it is bothersome to you. Removing the mole will eliminate skin irritation.

You should also consider the healing times and the total cost of the surgery. It takes anywhere from one to two weeks to heal depending on the individual and the type of surgery one has. The cost of removing a mole vary from doctor to doctor, but typically range from $125-$150.

To prepare the mole for surgery starts before you even get to the hospital. Be sure to dress in comfortable, loose clothing at home the day of the surgery. This is to prevent rubbing on the area after the mole is removed.

When you arrive to have your mole removed the area around the mole will be cleansed to sterilize the mole. An anesthetic will be applied to numb the area. You and the dermatologist must decide the method in which you will remove your mole depending on the kind of mole you own.

There is the excision method that is used to treat and remove cancerous moles. A medical blade is used to remove the mole and after this procedure the doctor will stitch the surface of the skin so that the healing process can begin.

There is the cauterization method. In this case, the doctor will use a cautery tool to burn the mole away. There are no stitches required in this case.

There is the shaving method for protruding moles. The mole is removed with a scalpel and an electrical instrument is used to stop the bleeding. Afterwards, an antibiotic is used to reduce the risk of infection and a bandage is placed on the wound.

Laser treatment is another way of removing moles. However, you want to be careful in this case because your mole will be removed destroying cells before they can be checked for cancer and this can be risky.

The risks of removing a mole are very minimal. If the proper precautions are not taken the risk of infection may occur as well as nerve damage. Scars are very common after surgical mole removal, but will fade somewhat over time. Other risks vary depending on the method of removal and the area that is being treated. It is important to choose a doctor with experience in mole removal.

You should now be able to make an educated decision on the removal of your mole.


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