TL;DR:
- Moles (pigmented nevi): Accumulations of melanocytes; colors range from red, brown, black, and occasionally blue; size, shape, and number vary by genetics.
- When to worry: Moles that itch, bleed, or change shape/color may signal melanoma—a highly malignant skin cancer requiring urgent medical attention.
- Melanoma indicators: Irregular shape, jagged edges, inconsistent color, possible growth under the skin.
- Removal necessity: Moles that change over time, are exposed to sun, or are prone to irritation (e.g., under clothing straps) should be assessed by a dermatologist.
- Laser removal: Painless, non-scarring method using high-energy lasers; suited for superficial and some deeper lesions; quick and safe.
- Surgical removal: Recommended for malignant moles; excises mole and margin of healthy tissue; sutures and histopathology ensure complete removal and diagnosis.
Moles are moles that each of us has. They accompany from birth or appear over time. Moles occur practically all over the body, including on the face. They can be of smaller or larger size and of different colors. However, moles do not always look aesthetically pleasing, and sometimes they can signal serious diseases. Therefore, the decision is often made to remove them. So when should a mole be removed and what methods are used to do so?
What are and where do moles come from?
Peppers are otherwise known as pigmented nevi, which are places where pigment cells – melanocytes – have accumulated. Moles can be quite diverse in shape, and thus have different health significance. The shape of moles can be regular, clearly distinguishable from the surface of the skin or with jagged edges. On the other hand, their coloring takes on a red, brown or black color. It can also happen that pepper appears bluish in color. The size can be small, resulting in the common question – is it a bug or a mole. The size, number and distribution of moles is an individual issue, often related to genetics.
Which moles should cause concern?
Due to the numerous moles on our body, we do not always pay attention to them. However, it is a good idea to observe your body, and if you develop an itchy mole or one that bleeds, you should immediately go to a doctor for a consultation. Some moles can develop into skin cancer, which is called melanoma. This is one of the most malignant skin cancers and can even give distant metastasis. melanoma What does melanoma look like? Melanoma is a nevus that in its initial stage is often flat and can take the form of a spot. As it grows, it can grow by accentuating and growing under the surface of the skin. Typically, a mole has an irregular and jagged shape and a non-uniform color. Therefore, not every black or red mole can indicate the presence of melanoma.
What does the removal of a mole look like?
Do not remove all moles and nevi that appear on the skin. The body should be observed, especially newly formed moles. If they arouse concern, certainly the dermatologist, after an examination, will make an appropriate decision as to whether the mole threatens our health and should be removed. When observing moles, it is important to pay attention, first of all, to their color and size, whether they change with time. pepper removal It is also worth bearing in mind that it is advisable removal of protruding moles located within the bra straps, shirt collar, or trouser belt. Such placement of the mole exposes it to constant irritation and snagging during daily activities. In addition, freckles located in visible and exposed areas of the body, exposed to constant contact with the sun, are often recommended for removal. Ways to get rid of unsightly or health-threatening moles are many. The decision on the method of removal should be made by the doctor after examination and consultation with the patient.
Laser removal of moles
This is one of the most popular methods for removing moles and nevi. The procedure begins with anesthesia. It is administered in the form of an ointment or injection. Once the anesthesia takes effect, a laser beam emitted by the device is used to remove the lesion. The high-energy laser beam is directed at the mole, which leads to surface vaporization of the mole. It is also possible with the laser to remove not only superficial lesions, but also those located deeper.
The procedure itself is short, as removal of a single mole takes up to 15 minutes. For large and deep lesions, gradual removal is recommended, over several laser treatments. The procedure is not one of the painful and unpleasant ones. During its course there is no bleeding and no visible and large scars are formed. It is a safe procedure with little risk of infection.
Surgical removal of moles
The second method of getting rid of a mole is its surgical excision. It is recommended when the mole is malignant or threatens our health. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. It differs from laser removal mainly in that not only the mole itself is removed, but also a margin of healthy tissue to make sure that the entire malignant lesion is removed. After the moles are surgically excised, a wound is created over which sutures are placed.
They are removed approximately 10 days after the procedure. A small scar is formed at the site of the removed mole. The procedure of surgical removal of moles can be carried out with a scalpel or an electric surgical knife – electrocoagulation. A mole removed in this way can be subjected to histopathological examination, which will clearly exclude or confirm the presence of cancer and allow further effective treatment.
Conclusion
Removing moles isn’t just about appearance—it’s often a step to protect health. We’ve discussed what moles are, how to spot concerning ones, and removal methods like laser or surgery. If a mole changes size, color, or irritates, consult a doctor. Timely action can prevent serious issues like melanoma. Whether for aesthetics or health, removal should always follow medical advice. Regular self-checks and professional evaluations can make all the difference.
