Mole Removal

A mole, medically referred to as a nevus, is a common appearance on the skin with almost every adult having a few. It presents as pigmented or un-pigmented, raised, or flat spots on the skin and are often harmless. Our Pittsburgh based board-certified physician and cosmetic specialist, Dr. Barad specializes in cosmetic mole removal.

When Is A Mole Unusual?

A nevus can develop anywhere on the body and is usually round in shape and some may even have hairs growing from them. Its texture can be anything from smooth to wrinkled, and its size is ordinarily less than 6mm in diameter.

The ABCDE guide of melanoma is a good way to identify when a growth may be problematic, and removal is advised to minimize risk.

• A - It is not shaped asymmetrically.
• B - The border is irregular.
• C - It is uneven in skin color.
• D - The diameter is bigger than 6mm or the size of a pea.
• E - It has evolved in shape, size, or color in recent weeks or months.

If you notice any of the changes noted above, schedule an appointment for further diagnosis with your dermatologist. If there are no suspicious changes, and you have cleared any unusual nevi with your dermatologist, schedule cosmetic mole removal at the Aesthetic Skin and Laser Center in Pittsburgh.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Dr. Roxana Barad has an expert eye and is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the different types of growths. Most people have between 10 - 40 common moles (acquired nevi) on the body, but the following types increase the risk of melanoma skin cancer.

Atypical

They present as odd shapes, mixed in color and larger in size. A mole that bleeds easily should be evaluated.

Congenital

This is when a nevus is present at birth.

Spitz Nevus

This type usually occurs on the body before the age of 20. Often dome-shaped and pink with a raised texture. It may also bleed at times.

We recommend that you see your dermatologist for evaluation of any concerning nevi with the characteristics noted above. If nevi are determined to be benign, Dr. Barad can create a treatment plan to remove the mole(s) with the least residual skin changes.

How Is A Mole Removed?

Although most nevi do not require treatment, some may cause a patient discomfort and irritation, or are present on the face in undesirable areas, or the patient may feel there are too many moles on their face or body - for cosmetic concerns.  In such cases, the following cosmetic treatment options are considered, and often combined to offer the best aesthetic outcome:

• Surgical excision
• Surgical shave +/- radiofrequency
• Laser ablation

Complications And Risks

As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications or side effects. These risks will be discussed during your medical examination and consultation with Dr. Barad.

Visit The Aesthetic Skin And Laser Center

Schedule your cosmetic mole removal evaluation with Dr. Barad in Pittsburgh, PA, and discuss your mole removal options for your best aesthetic outcome.

[written]