Mole Removal is a procedure that requires an expert opinion, and patients that are considering removing a mole should first discuss it with their dermatologist. Dr. Andrew G. Woolrich is an experienced dermatologist located in New York, NY who can determine whether a mole should be removed and safely excise it for medical or cosmetic reasons.
A mole, medically known as a melanocytic nevus, is a flesh tone, red, brown, or black spot that can appear anywhere on the skin’s surface. They are often referred to as beauty marks. Moles are extremely common, just about everyone has a few. They’re generally round or oval in shape and may be raised or flat. Some moles are present at birth, but most develop during childhood or through early adulthood. A mole is formed by a clustering of melanocytes, which are skin cells that produce the skin-darkening pigment melanin. Most moles are harmless. However, those that are asymmetrical, have irregular edges, mixed pigmentation, change in size or color, bleed or ooze, may be potentially cancerous and should be examined by a dermatologist.
Only moles that are determined to be potentially cancerous by a dermatologist require removal. However, moles may also be removed because they are irritated or for purely cosmetic reasons. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Woolrich today to see how he can best help you with mole removal.
Mole removal is a relatively quick, fairly painless in-office procedure that is performed with a local anesthetic. One of two approaches may be used:
Patients should never attempt to remove a mole themselves. Doing so can cause scarring or infection. Moreover, if the mole contains cancer some of these cells can remain in the skin and eventually spread. The decision whether to shave or excise a mole is made by Dr. Woolrich based on the size, shape, type of mole and the patient’s desired cosmetic result. Moles removed by either method should be sent to a laboratory for pathologic analysis.
To learn more about Mole Removal and how Dr. Woolrich can help you, call our office today.
Dr. Woolrich accepts most major insurances. If you have any questions, please feel free to give our office a call and one of our knowledgeable staff members will be happy to help.
Our office is handicap accessible and English, Spanish and Hebrew are spoken.