Moles are small, dark pigmented growths that can appear anywhere on the skin, singularly or in groups. They are usually brown or black in color due to the high concentrations of melanin in the cells that make up the mole.

*Un-retouched photos

Moles appear during childhood and in the early adulthood. Moles can appear even later in life. Moles can change over time, they can become raised, and change color and often hairs can develop on the moles. Moles can even disappear.

Moles are caused by cells growing in clusters instead of being evenly spread throughout the skin. These cells are called melanocytes and these are the cells that produce color and give skin its natural tone.

Often due the location and size of the mole, people want moles removed for cosmetic reasons. Removal of a mole is done under local anesthetic in office. It can be removed either by surgically or by electrodessication. There is no down time and normal daily activities can be continued. Surgical removal requires suture removal after 7 days. Moles that are removed the electrodessication, a scab will develop and heal within 1 – 2 weeks.

The only moles that are of medical concern are those that appear different or have changed from when they first appear. Any mole that changes color, height, size or shape, or if they bleed, itch, appear scaly or are tender or painful must be evaluated by a specialist.