Suspicious Mole Removed

A young mother of four from Ketchikan, Alaska visited our clinic today to see Heather Haberman, my Physician Assistant. She was concerned about a mole that had been on her right cheek since she was a child. Over time, the mole had noticeably grown and changed in color, causing her and her family to be concerned.

Our inspection determined that the mole was 6 millimeters in diameter, raised, smooth, and fairly uniform in color with tan and beige in certain areas.

When we explained the mole should be excised (removed), she revealed that she was leaving for Alaska tomorrow morning. Knowing we only needed a half-hour for the surgery, we added her to our afternoon schedule.

Later that afternoon, we successfully excised the mole, putting in absorbable suture underneath and on top because she would not be able to return to the clinic.

Result:

It was good that we removed the mole because it did have a few atypical features after all.

Take away:

Even if a mole has been present for years, any change in color or size may be indicative of potential cancer and should be looked at by an expert dermatologist. Promptly consulting a skin cancer doctor is crucial for early detection and treatment. These specialists can assess the mole using advanced diagnostic techniques, ensuring any underlying issues are addressed effectively. Regular skin examinations are also recommended to monitor any new growths or changes over time.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs that a mole might be suspicious or cancerous?

A suspicious mole often changes in size, color, or shape, or looks different from your other moles. If a mole becomes larger, darker, uneven in color, or starts to itch, bleed, or raise up, you should see a dermatologist or skin cancer doctor promptly.

Should I get a mole checked if it has been there for years but recently changed?

Yes, any mole that has been stable for years but starts to change in color, size, or texture should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Changes over time can be an early sign of skin cancer and early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes.

How is a suspicious mole removed by a dermatologist?

A suspicious mole is usually removed with a minor surgical procedure called excision under local anesthesia. The dermatologist cuts out the mole with a small margin of normal skin, then closes the area with stitches and sends the tissue to a lab for analysis.

Is mole removal surgery painful and how long does it take?

Mole removal is typically quick and done in the office, often in about 30 minutes. You may feel a brief sting from the numbing injection, but the procedure itself should be painless and discomfort afterward is usually mild.

When should I see a skin cancer doctor about a mole?

You should see a skin cancer doctor if a mole grows, changes color, looks irregular, or worries you in any way. It’s also wise to have regular skin checks, especially if you have many moles, fair skin, or a family history of skin cancer.