Nearly everyone has moles, but have you ever worried that yours might be signs of cancer? At River Region Dermatology, we’re proud to offer our patients extensive mole examination and removal services.
If you’re interested in receiving the highest standard of dermatological treatment in the Montgomery, Alabama area, contact River Region Dermatology today to schedule a consultation appointment. We look forward to hearing from you!
What are Moles?
Moles are one of the most common skin growths that a person can have. These features may be flat or protruding and appear in pink, brown, or black varieties. They are composed of melanocytes, or the pigment-producing cells of the skin. While the vast majority of moles are not dangerous, they have the potential to become cancerous if exposed to excessive sunlight or carcinogens.
Are They Safe?
While moles can develop at nearly any stage of life, most of them appear during childhood and infancy. Most of the moles that grow early in life are healthy. But ones that change over time or appear later in life are sometimes cause for concern. These changes are a sign that the cells in your skin are being produced more rapidly than they normally are, which is sometimes an indication of skin cancer.
Following the ABCDE model of skin evaluation is a great way to tell if you need to worry about one of your moles:
- A- Asymmetrical
- B- Border
- C- Color
- D- Diameter
- E – Evolving
If a mole is asymmetrical, has an uneven border, changes in color, or grows in size, you should have it examined by a licensed skincare professional.
When Should a Mole be Removed?
Most moles are harmless, but sometimes, patients want them removed for aesthetic or medical reasons. If a mole is exhibiting some of the signs of skin cancer, Dr. Porcia Love might recommend that you have it removed.
The steps involved with mole removal are fairly simple and straightforward. Typically, the skin near the mole is numbed, and the mole is scooped out using a scalpel. The removed mole is then tested to make sure it is not cancerous.
While this procedure is perfectly adequate for removing potentially cancerous moles, it may present a problem to individuals that want to remove them for aesthetic reasons. Removing these features via a scalpel can leave behind scars.
If you’re interested in having some of your moles examined, Dr. Porcia Love can help. Doctor Love is proud to provide clients in the Montgomery area with comprehensive mole examinations and effective removal techniques. If you’d like more information about her practice or are interested in scheduling a consultation appointment, contact River Region Dermatology today.