Moles Specialist

Dermatology Center

Dermatology located in Orem, UT

Moles aren’t anything to worry about. In some cases though, they can start to change shape and color, which can signal early warning signs of skin cancer. Other times, moles are just in locations that make you feel uncomfortable because of their appearance. At the Dermatology Center, Kraig Jenson, MD, and Devin Burr, DO, can evaluate your moles through mole mapping and remove them if needed. The team specializes in ensuring you have minimal scarring afterward. You can call the Orem, Utah office, or schedule an appointment online through the website.

385-497-6996

Moles Q&A

What causes moles?

Some people are just born with moles, while other times, they surface throughout your lifetime. Your genetics play a big part in whether or not you have moles and if they’re likely to become dysplastic, or atypical. Medical experts also find that sun exposure plays a role in mole appearance.

Skin cells known as melanocytes are what give your skin its natural color. Sometimes these cells grow in clusters, rather than spreading out throughout your skin. The more sun exposure these clusters get, the darker they become. These clusters can also darken during pregnancy.

How does mole mapping work?

While most moles are benign and aren’t a concern, they sometimes develop into something serious. Mole mapping is a way to monitor your moles to track early warning signs of skin cancer. The Dermatology Center takes photographs of suspicious moles to meticulously document how your moles change (if they change at all).

Mole mapping gives the team the ability to recognize the slightest changes in your moles that may otherwise be overlooked. By mapping and tracking your mole changes, you avoid going through any unnecessary biopsies and can feel confident that your moles are thoroughly monitored.

Do I need to have moles removed?

If the Dermatology Center finds that a mole looks suspicious, they may suggest removing it for a biopsy. It might be time to remove a mole if it is:

Asymmetrical or has irregular borders
Contains multiple colors
Is greater than ¼ inch in diameter
Changes in size or shape

There are two options for surgical mole removal:

Surgical excision

During surgical excision, the Dermatology Center team will numb the area around the mole and cut out the mole and a small amount of surrounding skin with a scalpel. The wound is closed with sutures.

Surgical shave

During a surgical shave, the area around the mole is numbed. A small blade is used to cut around and beneath the mole. This option is often used for smaller moles.

You may or may not need stitches, depending on the size of the mole you had removed. The entire process takes only a few minutes per mole, and because the Dermatology Center completely numbs your treatment area, you won’t feel a thing. The process is the same if you are having a mole removed for cosmetic reasons.

If you have a suspicious mole or haven’t had a skin check in a while, book an appointment at the Dermatology Center. Schedule online or over the phone today.

* Individual results may vary.