Moles
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Integrated Dermatology of Clinton
Dermatologists located in Madison, CT
Most adults have a few moles somewhere on their bodies. But if you start developing new moles or have moles that are getting darker or changing shape, you need to have them evaluated at Integrated Dermatology of Clinton. This Clinton, Connecticut, board-certified dermatology team can check your moles to see if they’re normal and if needed, perform a biopsy right in the office. Schedule your mole evaluation online, or call the practice directly.
Moles Q & A
What are moles?
Moles, medically known as nevi, are commonly darkened, raised bumps. Most adults who are light-skinned have at least 10-40 moles on their skin. Usually, these moles begin in childhood or even teenage years, then grow and get darker (or even lighter) as you get older.
Moles can develop anywhere on your body and how many you get and where they form often depends on your genetics. But you can also develop these darkened skin growths because of sun damage. Sometimes new mole growths even occur during pregnancy.
When should I see a dermatologist about a mole?
Most moles are entirely harmless and dermatologists expect them to change shape, size, and even color as you get older. Though these changes are often normal, sometimes cells start dividing and multiplying rapidly, which can be concerning. You need to have a mole evaluated if it:
- Is asymmetrical
- Varies in color
- Itches or feels painful
- Is larger than the diameter of a pencil eraser
- Has an irregular or poorly defined border
You also need to schedule a mole checkup at Integrated Dermatology of Clinton if you find that you’re developing new moles or if you have a mole that continues to change in shape or color.
How are moles treated?
During your mole evaluation at Integrated Dermatology of Clinton, your dedicated dermatologist may want to biopsy any abnormal moles they see. They can also remove moles for cosmetic reasons.
Mole removal, a simple in-office procedure, involves numbing your skin and carefully shaving away the mole and some of the surrounding tissue. The entire treatment is virtually painless. Afterward, your dermatologist may send your specimen to the lab for further evaluation.
If the cells in your mole come back as abnormal, the team at Integrated Dermatology of Clinton may schedule you for a follow-up treatment appointment to determine the next course of action. They may need to remove additional tissue, especially if you have a confirmed skin cancer diagnosis, including basal or squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma.
If you need a mole evaluated or removed, contact Integrated Dermatology of Clinton today. You can conveniently schedule your exam online or over the phone.
