Moles

Mole Removal in Austin

Moles are very common, and most people have between 10 and 40 of them. Moles may be pink, tan, brown or a color that is very close to the person’s normal skin tone.

Melanocytes produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its natural color. When skin is exposed to the sun, melanocytes produce more pigment, causing the skin to tan or darken. Sun protection with appropriate clothing and sunscreen is the best way to avoid mole development.

Types of Moles

Most skin moles fall under three classifications:

  • Congenital Moles – moles that someone is born with
  • Common Moles – harmless moles that appear on the body, most people have them
  • Atypical Moles – these moles may be oddly shaped, multi-colored, and larger than common moles

The ABCDE’s of Moles

When evaluating moles for the threat of cancer, the first step is to check the “ABCDE’s”. This acronym stands for Asymmetry, Borders, Color, Diameter, and Evolving. These are the quick warning signs to look for:

  • Asymmetry – the mole is asymmetrical 
  • Borders – the mole has irregular borders
  • Color – the moles is dark black, red, white, or multi-colored
  • Diameter – the mole’s diameter exceeds 6mm
  • Evolving – the mole is visibly changing in size, shape, or color

Source: UnityPoint Health 

Mole Removal and Treatment

If a mole is suspected to be cancerous, or unwanted for aesthetic reasons, there are two common procedures for removal: surgical shaving and surgical excision. Surgical shaving involves skimming the mole off the surface, often including a layer of skin below the mole, with a sharp blade.

Surgical excision involves cutting out the mole, and sometimes some surrounding tissue, and then stitching the area closed. This method is typically for larger moles.

Are Skin Tags and Moles the Same?

Moles and skin tags are slightly different. Skin tags usually consist of hanging skin, but aren’t usually something to be concerned about. Learn more about skin tags here.

Most moles are harmless and do not require removal or treatment. However, if you have moles, it’s important to keep an inventory of their number and appearance.

If your moles change in size, shape or color, or if you develop new moles as an adult, you should schedule an appointment to have them evaluated and possibly removed by one of our Board-Certified Dermatologists. You should also make sure to have an annual skin exam each year, which can help your Skin Care Provider document any changes in your moles from the previous year.

Vitalogy has eight Austin area locations to assist with mole removal: Bastrop, Burnet, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Harker Heights, Marble Falls, San Marcos, and Southwest Austin.

Medical

Book An Appointment

Schedule time at one of our eight Austin area locations whether you need to get your annual skin exam, have a skin condition checked out or discuss a cosmetic treatment with one of our Dermatologists, Aestheticians, or other skilled Skin Care Providers.

Book

Skin 101