If you’re in need of mole removal, there’s no better place to go than Central Carolina Dermatology Clinic in High Point, NC. This skin care center has been providing top-notch care for local patients for more than 60 years, making them experts on all things dermatology-related. To put you at ease prior to having a mole removed, this caring team answers some of the most common questions surrounding the procedure below.

5 Common Mole Removal FAQs

Are All Moles Harmful?

Moles are very common, and while they are not harmful on their own, the form of skin cancer called melanoma can grow in or near a mole. Fair-skinned individuals tend to be more prone to moles, and adults with this skin tone have 10 to 40 moles on average (source: American Academy of Dermatology).

How Do I Know If It Needs To Go?

If a mole bothers you because it rubs against clothing or you simply dislike its appearance, you can talk to your dermatologist about having it removed. Moles that show possible signs of skin cancer must also be removed. While you may be able to spot abnormal moles on your own by looking for asymmetrical shapes, swelling beyond the border of the mole into the surrounding skin, and any changes in sensation, it’s always a good idea to seek input from a professional.

What Does Mole Removal Entail?

After numbing your skin, the doctor will either surgically remove the mole in its entirety or shave it off. If there’s a chance it could be cancerous, it will be sent to the lab for a biopsy. Some moles may take two visits to be removed in their entirety.

Can I Do It At Home?

Attempting to remove a mole at home is strongly discouraged, as it could result in injury or infection. If there is any chance that the mole is cancerous, it’s possible you’d leave behind skin cancer cells.

How Can I Be Sure My Moles Are Safe?

In addition to performing visual checks to look out for the symptoms described above, have a dermatologist check your skin annually to perform a skin cancer screening.

If you have a mole that you are concerned about, call the friendly staff at Central Carolina Dermatology Clinic to set up an appointment for discussing mole removal options at (336) 887-3195. Or, learn more about the clinic’s services by visiting their website.