Mole Removal Hood River OR

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

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Mole Removal FAQ in Hood River, OR

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.

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.

How big of a mole is too big?

Only large congenital moles (greater than 20mm in size) have a significantly increased risk of turning into a skin cancer. Acquired moles. Most moles are acquired, meaning they develop after birth. They are typically smaller than a pencil eraser and have even pigmentation and a symmetrical border.

Why am I getting more moles as I get older?

You can also develop moles during childhood and early adulthood. Sun exposure and other drivers behind aging skin can lead to nevi as an older adult. Some moles can become cancerous, but the majority are harmless — this is why it’s important to always get a dermatologist’s take on any moles in question.

What percentage of moles removed are cancerous?

What percentage can we expect? A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology suggests around 7% of suspicious mole removal is cancerous. This number drops when accounting for all moles removed, as most are benign (non-cancerous).

How does a cancerous mole look like?

Border that is irregular: The edges are often ragged, notched, or blurred in outline. The pigment may spread into the surrounding skin. Color that is uneven: Shades of black, brown, and tan may be present. Areas of white, gray, red, pink, or blue may also be seen.

How painful is mole removal?

Whether you have surgical excision or shaving to remove a mole, the procedure is quick and shouldn’t hurt once the area is numb. After the procedure, you may have stinging or burning around the area for a few days.

What spray is used to remove moles?

Liquid Nitrogen (LN2) Treatment The LN2 treatment is a simple procedure that uses pressurized liquid nitrogen to freeze and eliminate moles and skin tags.

How painful is mole removal?

Since you’ll be given a local anesthetic before the procedure, you shouldn’t experience any pain or sharpness during mole removal. If you do, be sure to let your dermatologist know right away. After mole removal, you should expect some type of scar.

Is removing a mole a good idea?

Mole removal can prevent the spread of cancerous and pre-cancerous cells and address your cosmetic concerns in one simple procedure. Results for the majority of patients are permanent, and our patients find that they are able to enjoy life to the fullest after the removal of a noticeable or suspicious mole.

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.

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.