The days of summer are gone and the constant reminders about the importance of SPF have slowly faded. Although the hot days have stopped, the importance of maintaining healthy skin still remains. During the cold winter months, remember to keep an eye out for any moles that may have appeared as a result of the passing of summer. Self-examination is one of the best ways to detect any early signs of skin cancer. So how do you examine yourself for any abnormal growths on your skin? During your self-exam, you will want to follow the ABCD method.
Asymmetry: Look for any signs that your mole is changing in size. Melanomas are often asymmetrical, meaning one side may not mirror the other.
Border: Look for signs of changes in and around the borders of the mole. This includes if they become blurry, jagged, or jagged.
Color: Normal moles have a shade of color. Take note of changes in the mole’s tone, including shades of tan, brown, black, blue, white, or red.
Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger than a pencil eraser, although some have been diagnosed as smaller in size.
Although most moles are benign, it is always recommended to get an expert opinion for proper treatment and close observation. If your mole shows any of these signs of change, consider an evaluation by a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist. An expert can help you evaluate your moles and help you if he or she decides that removal is necessary or appropriate for you. While many people are born with these growths, some patients may find themselves with moles due to tanning, increased sun exposure, and even genes. Understanding the differences between each type of mole will guide you in determining the most appropriate removal procedure.
Types of moles:
Atypical: The atypical mole is usually larger than other common moles. Some have jagged edges that fade into the skin. Seen in about 1 in 10 Americans, atypical moles often have a higher chance of becoming precancerous. In some extreme cases, patients can develop more than 50 of them.
Acquired: Also known as the common mole, the acquired mole appears any time after birth. It is often believed that the acquired mole is the result of sun damage.
Congenital: According to the American College of Osteopathic Dermatology, about 1 in 100 is born with the congenital mole. Although most are brown in color, their shades, shapes, and sizes can vary.
Dysplastic: The dysplastic mole is usually larger than an average mole. Usually about the size of a pencil eraser, these types of moles tend to have lighter, uneven borders. They are often hereditary, and in some cases, patients experience 100 or more.
Mole removal can be performed under local anesthesia. In some cases, patients may opt for Twilight IV sedation, where patients feel as if they are falling asleep naturally. Depending on the type of mole you have will determine the type of procedure used to remove your mole. Most flat moles, for example, are removed by “shaving excision.” By comparison, moles that are darker and deeper may require a full-thickness excision. Full-thickness excision allows the best evaluation of the specimen for any precancerous changes. This test only requires a few stitches that are removed during a follow-up visit.
If your mole begins to show unusual changes in asymmetry, border, or color, or if you simply feel self-conscious about your mole, don’t hesitate to contact your plastic surgeon about mole removal in New York City.