Moles are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually brown or black and are caused by clusters of pigmented skin cells (melanocytes). However, they can be any skin color, and any shape and size. While most of these growths are harmless, some can be indicators of skin cancer, which is why regular skin examinations by a professional dermatologist or trained providers are crucial. Mole removal in Palm Beach at Carroll Dermatology can be used to screen for or treat skin cancer, or to remove unwanted non-cancerous skin growths to reduce irritation or enhance your appearance and boost your self-confidence.
There are several types of moles. Congenital moles are present at birth and may have a higher risk of becoming cancerous. Common acquired moles develop over time and are usually harmless. Atypical moles, commonly called dysplastic nevi, have irregular shapes or colors and can resemble melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Monitoring these or removing them is particularly important.
Mole removal is a straightforward procedure performed for either cosmetic reasons or medical necessity. The two most common techniques are surgical excision and shave removal. Surgical excision involves numbing the area with lidocaine and cutting out the skin growth along with a small margin of surrounding tissue. Stitches are usually required. Shave biopsy removal is the most commonly used technique, which involves shaving the mole flush with the skin after numbing the area of concern with injectable lidocaine. A biopsy is often performed afterward to determine if the growth is benign or malignant. The process of a shave biopsy takes a few minutes with little to no downtime.
Having skin growths checked regularly is critical for early skin cancer detection. Skin cancer, including melanoma, can be life-threatening if not diagnosed early. Warning signs to look for include changes in size, shape, color, or texture, or if a spot on your skin starts itching, bleeding, or not healing. Here at Carroll Dermatology, we use tools like dermoscopy and digital mole mapping to assess changes over time and catch early signs of cancer.
Carroll Dermatology is a leading choice for mole evaluation and removal. With a team of board-certified dermatologists and providers and advanced diagnostic tools, patients receive expert care in a welcoming, professional environment. Our approach emphasizes both health and aesthetics, ensuring skin growths are removed safely, effectively, and with minimal scarring. Our practice here at Carroll Dermatology also prioritizes early detection, offering thorough skin exams and personalized care plans based on each patient’s risk factors.
Getting your skin checked is not just about appearance. It could save your life. Trusting your skin to experienced specialists here at Carroll Dermatology ensures you're getting the highest level of care, from detection to removal and continuous follow-up care.
Carroll Dermatology also provides treatment for many other common skin conditions, such as acne, pigmentary disorders, including melasma, photodamage, sunspots, and cherry angiomas, long-term skin issues, such as psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema, various skin growths, and bacterial, viral, and fungal skin infections.
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