Mole Removal San Luis Obispo CA

Find top doctors who perform Mole Removal in San Luis Obispo, CA. Whether you’re seeking treatment or looking to schedule a preventative screening, we can connect you with the best dermatologists near you in San Luis Obispo, CA.

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Mole Removal FAQ in San Luis Obispo, CA

What causes moles to suddenly appear?

Researchers are not sure why moles suddenly appear later in life. Most that do are benign and occur likely because of age, prescription drug use, sunburn or extensive sun exposure and genetic mutations. Any mole that appears and looks unordinary can be a cause for concern. New moles are more likely to become cancerous.

Is there a downside to removing moles?

The procedure may leave a permanent scar. People with Black skin are at increased risk of other surgical side effects, such as pigmentary changes at the incision site and keloid scars. If you notice that a mole has grown back, see your doctor promptly.

Can you just cut off a cancerous mole?

Some people are tempted to just cut off a mole at home. This is dangerous, and you should never do it. If your mole has cancerous cells, you may not get all the cancer when you cut the mole, and you may even cause cancer cells to spread.

When should a mole be removed?

Most moles don’t require treatment. But you might want to have a mole removed if you’re unhappy with how it looks or feels. Talk with your healthcare provider if you’re concerned about a mole. Generally, moles are removed if your provider suspects they might be cancerous or for cosmetic reasons.

Do you need stitches after mole removal?

Stitches are placed depending on the depth of the mole. They may be placed deeper, where they are absorbed by the body and do not have to be removed. Stitches also may be placed on the surface of the skin. Surface stitches may need to be removed later.

Is melanoma flat or raised?

It usually appears as a round, raised lump on the surface of the skin that is pink, red, brown or black and feels firm to touch. It may develop a crusty surface that bleeds easily. It is usually found on sun-damaged skin on the head and neck.

What are raised moles called?

Intradermal Nevi Another name for these moles is “dermal nevi.” The melanocytes that make up an intradermal nevus are located in the dermis (below the dermo-epidermal junction). This mass of melanocytes pushes the cells above it upward, resulting in the flesh-colored bump that is noted on the surface of the skin.

Can facial moles be removed?

Moles, particularly non-cancerous ones, can be easily removed with a minor surgical procedure. This type of mole removal can be done in an outpatient setting. Moles can be surgically removed, burned away or shaved off. There is a minor risk of infection, but side effects are generally minor.

What are the 5 warning signs of malignant melanoma?

Asymmetry. The shape of one-half of the mole does not match the other. Border. The edges are ragged, notched, uneven, or blurred. Color. Shades of black, brown, and tan may be present. Diameter. Evolving.

What causes moles to grow?

Moles are caused when cells in the skin called melanocytes grow in clusters. Melanocytes are generally distributed throughout the skin. They produce melanin, the natural pigment that gives skin its color.