Mole Removal
Moles are exceptionally common and can appear on any part of the body. Some people are born with moles already present on their skin. These are known as congenital melanonaevi. Moles are usually harmless and are caused by abnormal skin cells which produce pigmentation. These skin cells are called melanocytes. Those moles not present from birth, appear over time and are caused by exposure to the sun. These are usually especially apparent on the face or arms.
How To Remove A Mole
Although the majority of moles are harmless some may develop into malignant melanoma, which is a form of skin cancer. This condition can be fatal and detection and treatment of it at the earliest opportunity is extremely important. To help avoid this condition you should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially mid afternoon when the sun is at it's hottest. You should use and reapply high factor sunscreens often, and cover up your skin with light clothing. Remember that UV tanning beds are just as harmful to your skin as the sun itself. It is as important to protect your skin from sun exposure in the winter as it is in the summer.
If you have moles present on your skin it is important to check them for any changes in size, shape or color. If you check them regularly you will become familiar with what they look like and any changes will be immediately apparent.
Self Exam Checklist
Has the mole grown in size?
Does it have an irregular shape or surface?
Has it changed color?
Is it itchy?
Is it bleeding spontaneously?
If you have any concerns about a mole you should seek medical advice.
A biopsy of the mole may be taken first. This in when a small piece of the mole is removed and investigated under a microscope. If it is found to be cancerous then the mole may be removed by surgical excision. The area is first numbed with local anethestic and then the mole is cut away along with some of the surrounding skin. The skin is then stitched.
A mole can also be removed by cauterization. The doctor will scrape off the mole with a scalpel and then burn the area with a specialist 'tool'.
Laser surgery is most commonly used on smaller moles, as the larger ones are usually deeper beneath the skin and the laser cannot penetrate the skin to the depth necessary to remove them.
If you have moles present on your skin it is important to check them for any changes in size, shape or color. If you check them regularly you will become familiar with what they look like and any changes will be immediately apparent.
Self Exam Checklist
Has the mole grown in size?
Does it have an irregular shape or surface?
Has it changed color?
Is it itchy?
Is it bleeding spontaneously?
If you have any concerns about a mole you should seek medical advice.
A biopsy of the mole may be taken first. This in when a small piece of the mole is removed and investigated under a microscope. If it is found to be cancerous then the mole may be removed by surgical excision. The area is first numbed with local anethestic and then the mole is cut away along with some of the surrounding skin. The skin is then stitched.
A mole can also be removed by cauterization. The doctor will scrape off the mole with a scalpel and then burn the area with a specialist 'tool'.
Laser surgery is most commonly used on smaller moles, as the larger ones are usually deeper beneath the skin and the laser cannot penetrate the skin to the depth necessary to remove them.
by Keana_Carr
Hi, I am Keana Carr and I am an author specialising in Yeast Infection, and Moles, Warts, and Skin Tags
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