When can a skin mole be removed and what are the treatments?

Everyone has some distinguishable marks on their skin, known as moles.

Most of them may be harmless lesions, but what is certain is that sometimes they need to be removed.

But how can we differentiate between normal signs and potentially dangerous ones that need to be eliminated?

That's what we're going to find out, as well as the best way to remove moles or tumors.

What are the different types of signals?

The signs arise from the cells that produce melanin, responsible for the skin pigmentation process – melanocytes.

Some are born with us, others appear throughout life in any part of the body.

In addition to genetic causes, which can increase the predisposition to the appearance of these marks, exposure to ultraviolet rays can also lead to the formation of new lesions.

Furthermore, they can vary in shape or tone: darker or lighter, voluminous or flat, round, oval or other shapes.

As you can see, there are many types of signs. But the main characteristic that can distinguish them is their benign or malignant nature.

Why remove Signs?

Some of these lesions may remain the same, but others may develop into tumors.

In fact, in Europe, a percentage of skin cancers are melanomas, which evolve precisely from a malignant mole, according to the Portuguese Skin Cancer Association.

Like this, These marks can be removed if they prove to be potentially dangerous, after a dermatological evaluation.

On the other hand, even if they are benign, You can remove them if they are uncomfortable or for aesthetic reasons, especially if they are signs on the face.

How do I know if a Sign needs to be removed?

We already know that a mole can be removed if there's a chance it could be malignant. But how do we assess this risk?

Through a simple rule, that of ABCDE. As a rule, a sign can represent danger according to the following characteristics:

• Asymmetry (A): comparing the two halves of the signal, one is different from the other;
• Board (B): the edges are poorly defined or irregular;
• Color (C): variable and non-uniform tones, which can vary between brown, bluish, gray or black;
• Diameter (D): greater than 6 mm;
• Evolution (E): recent changes, particularly regarding size, color or thickness, for example.

It is essential that this analysis is carried out by the patient himself, through a recurring and thorough self-examination, paying attention to any changes in existing signs, the appearance of new lesions or wounds that do not heal.

During observation, it is important not to forget the less visible parts, namely between the fingers, on the scalp, behind the ears and armpits, for example.

If you recognize some of the aspects that make a mole potentially dangerous in your own marks, or if there happens to be itching or bleeding, You should consult a dermatologist as soon as possible for an evaluation.

What are the procedures for removing Signs?

Nowadays, it is relatively easy and quick to remove moles.

Although there are other techniques considered in some cases, such as laser therapy, the usual practice is to resort to a surgical method, which not only eliminates the problem definitively but also allows the lesion to be studied histologically through exams to diagnose its benign or malignant nature.

Removal is done by excision, and it is then necessary to suture the site of the intervention.

Although it is a surgical technique, it is performed safely in the office, using local anesthesia.

After removal

Since stitches are required, which are removed after a few days, there is always the possibility possibility of a scar forming.

This is an important consideration, especially for those who choose to remove a mole for aesthetic reasons. After all, no one wants to remove an annoying mark and, in the process, get another.

In addition to the professional's technique and experience, which contributes to making the scar as imperceptible as possible, post-treatment care is also essential, particularly regarding hydration of the area in question.

This way, you don't have to worry: the appearance tends to improve over time.

Furthermore, it is also important to disinfect the area being operated on, reducing the risk of possible infection after any surgery.

Find out more and book your appointment

Want to know how you can protect your health?

If there were a secret to safeguarding your health from the presence of warning signs, it would be knowing how to identify warning signs.

But that's not all: as each patient has their own pattern and characteristics, a specialist is the best person to evaluate them, to avoid the risk of developing more serious diseases, such as tumors.

If you are looking for a dermatologist to remove moles or for advice on your situation, Allure Clinic has several spaces, namely in Porto.

The commitment: to minimize risks and achieve effective results, as close as possible to what was expected.