Moles are common and generally harmless skin growths, but they can sometimes become a cause for concern if they change in appearance or cause discomfort. At Dermatology Center, our team of experts can evaluate and treat your moles to ensure your skin remains healthy and your mind at ease.
What Causes Moles?
Moles can appear at any stage of life due to genetic factors or sun exposure. These skin lesions are composed of melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation. When melanocytes grow in clusters instead of being evenly distributed across the skin, moles form. Sun exposure can darken these clusters, making them more prominent, and hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy, can also affect their appearance.
Why Should Moles Be Monitored?
Monitoring moles is crucial because, while most are benign, some can develop into melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Our dermatologist and team offer treatments for moles in Orem, Utah, including comprehensive mole mapping services, which involve photographing and documenting your moles over time. This process allows us to detect any subtle changes in your moles early on, which might otherwise go unnoticed. Early detection through mole mapping can significantly reduce the need for unnecessary biopsies and provide peace of mind that your moles are being closely monitored.
If during a mole mapping session, we find a mole that appears suspicious — characterized by asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, a diameter larger than ¼ inch, or changes in size or shape — we may recommend removal for further examination. We offer two primary methods for mole removal: surgical excision and surgical shave.
Mole Removal
In a surgical excision, we numb the area around the mole, then use a scalpel to remove the mole along with a small margin of surrounding tissue. The wound is then closed with sutures, ensuring minimal scarring. Alternatively, a surgical shave involves numbing the area and using a blade to shave off the mole. This technique is often suitable for smaller moles and may not require stitches.
Both procedures are quick, usually taking only a few minutes per mole, and are performed under local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout. Whether you are removing a mole for medical or cosmetic reasons, our skilled dermatologist and team strive to minimize scarring and promote smooth healing.
If you have concerns about a mole or have not had a skin check recently, we encourage you to call us at 801-224-5200 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Devin Burr, Byron Edwards, Natalie Bee and Olga Sambu. Early evaluation and treatment can make a significant difference in your skin health.