Mole Removal is not for “Do-it-yourselfers”

If you decide to have a mole removed for cosmetic reasons, is it a “big deal”? As long as you don’t try to remove it yourself, probably not.

A dermatologist can either cut a mole out, or shave it off with a surgical blade, usually in one office visit. If the mole needs to be checked for cancer, your doctor will send some of the tissue off for testing and notify you if there is an issue. If you try to remove the mole yourself, however, be prepared for problems. You could wind up with permanent scarring or an infection. Worst of all, if the tissue does need to be checked for cancer, you won’t be able to do anything about it.

If a mole grows back, this can be a sign of cancer. See your healthcare provider immediately. For tips on how to spot a potentially cancerous mole, use the ABCDE checklist.” What to look for: ABCDEs of melanoma (aad.org)

Dermatologist Dr. Wilson: 1-800-450-4548
At RMH every other Tuesday  9 a.m. – 4 p.m.