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Moles services offered in Near John C. Lincoln hospital , Phoenix, AZ
If you develop moles that bother you or change in appearance, turn to Dermatology Associates, with two locations in Phoenix, Arizona. The board-certified dermatology team evaluates and removes moles, particularly those that appear cancerous, to offer the clear, blemish-free skin you desire. Schedule a dermatology exam by phone or online today.
Moles Q & A
What are moles?
Moles are skin growths that may be the same color or a different color than the surrounding skin. Moles vary in size and overall appearance. Some are flat against your skin, while others are raised from the surface of your skin.
While often harmless, some moles indicate skin cancer and should be removed. If you have moles that embarrass you or show signs of skin cancer, see your dermatologist for a skin evaluation.
What do moles look like?
Moles may look like black, brown, tan, pink, or skin-colored spots. Some moles are raised or have hairs in them. Moles may not change at all, slowly disappear over time, or change in appearance.
Signs a lesion may be cancerous include moles that grow and those with irregular borders. Other signs of skin cancer include moles with dark specs, moles that bleed, and lesions that itch. Red nodules or waxy bumps are also signs of skin cancer.
What are the risk factors for moles?
While the cause of moles isn’t entirely clear, risk factors for developing them include:
- Fair skin
- Unprotected sun exposure
- Frequent sun exposure
- Family history of moles
- Having a lot of moles
Moles often appear during childhood. Many people have between 10 and 40 moles at any given time.
How are moles diagnosed?
To diagnose moles and screen for skin cancer, your Dermatology Associates specialist discusses your medical history, reviews your symptoms, and examines your moles. If a mole looks suspicious, they may take a sample of it during a biopsy or remove the mole entirely and send it to a lab for analysis.
How are moles treated?
Noncancerous moles don’t require treatment, but you can still have them removed if you’re unhappy with their appearance. Dermatology Associates offers:
- Excision
- Freezing
- Electrical current
- Mohs surgery
Mohs surgery removes a cancerous mole, layer by layer. You might also need radiation therapy or chemotherapy if you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer.
Protecting your skin from the sun is an excellent way to reduce the risk of future moles.
Call the Dermatology Associates office or use the online booking tab today to have moles evaluated.