Treatment for Moles in Vienna VA.
Moles are common, and they typically don’t cause problems. Moles can also be a sign of skin cancer, but it’s important to know what to look for. Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery Group of Northern Virginia, PLLC can help.
What Are Moles?
Moles develop from melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for skin color. When melanocytes clump together, a mole forms.
Moles, Freckles, and Skin Tags
Moles are different from freckles and skin tags. Freckles are caused by an overproduction of melanin, and skin tags develop in areas where skin rubs against skin, jewelry, or clothing. All of these skin issues are usually normal.
When To Visit a Dermatologist About Moles
Moles can be a sign of skin cancer, so you should visit a dermatologist if you notice a mole that is:
- Large, with a diameter of 6 millimeters or greater
- Uneven, with ragged, poorly defined borders
- Asymmetrically shaped, where both sides are not uniform with each other
- Itching, burning, painful, bleeding, or oozing
- Recurrent, and has grown back after the previous removal
What To Expect When You Visit a Dermatologist for Moles
Our dermatologist will perform a thorough skin check of your body, looking for abnormal moles and other skin abnormalities. Our dermatologist may recommend removing the entire mole or taking a small tissue sample. The sample may be sent off for a biopsy to determine whether cancerous cells are present.
Mole Removal Options
There are several ways our dermatologist can remove a mole. Depending on the size of the mole, location, and other factors, your dermatologist may recommend:
- Freezing the mole with liquid nitrogen
- Burning the mole with an electric current
- Shaving the mole, which is an excellent option for smaller moles, and doesn’t require sutures
- Removing the mole with an instrument, which is a great option for larger moles, and may require a few sutures
Learn More About Moles
To learn more about moles and when to visit a dermatologist about a mole, call Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery Group of Northern Virginia, PLLC at (703) 938-5700 today.