How your dermatologist in Issaquah, WA, can help protect your skin
Most people have moles, and most moles are completely normal. However, moles can also be an early warning sign of skin cancer, but only if you know what to look for. Dr. Suseela Narra at Narra Dermatology And Aesthetics in Issaquah, WA, provides a wide range of dermatology services, including mole removal.
Moles are caused by a certain type of skin cell known as a melanocyte. Melanocytes are the skin cells which determine the color of your skin. When melanocytes clump together, they form a mole.
So, when should you worry about a mole?
You should visit your dermatologist if you notice any moles that are:
- Larger than 6 millimeters in diameter
- Irregularly shaped with ragged borders
- Itching, burning, painful
- Bleeding or oozing
- Recurring after previous removal
If you have any mole that has changed in size, color, height, or shape, you should also have your dermatologist do a skin exam.
If you have a suspicious mole, your dermatologist will want to either remove the mole completely or take a small sample of the mole for a biopsy. A biopsy will determine whether the mole is benign, precancerous, or cancerous.
If your dermatologist suggests removal of the mole, this can be accomplished several different ways:
The mole can be shaved. This is an excellent solution for small moles, and the procedure doesn’t require sutures.
The mole can be removed completely using a punching instrument. This is a great choice for larger moles, and it does require a few sutures.
Your dermatologist may also recommend MOHS surgery, which is removing the mole layer-by-layer and examining each layer under a microscope.
Moles are often benign, but if they look abnormal, seek out your dermatologist as soon as you can. Early diagnosis is critical to treating skin cancer.
To learn more about mole removal, skin cancer, and other dermatology topics and services, call Dr. Suseela Narra at Narra Dermatology And Aesthetics in Issaquah, WA. You can reach her in the office by calling (425) 677-8867, so call today.