Do moles and other benign lesions in New Orleans require treatment?

By

Moles are common skin lesions, and generally harmless. However, they can develop into melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer. At Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology in New Orleans, we offer comprehensive diagnostics and, if needed, treatment.

When to see a dermatologist

You’ve noticed a mole or unusual spot on your skin. Do you need to see a doctor? If you haven’t had a skin cancer screening in the last 12 months, the answer is yes. Everyone should have an annual screening, during which your dermatologist will examine all moles, marks, and growths.

Moles that have just developed, or that have changed since your last screening, may be cause for concern. Common moles are generally small, unchanging, and uniform in appearance. Changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole is one of the primary warning signs. Other indications of melanoma include unusual color, uneven edges, irregular shape, or a large diameter (bigger than a pencil eraser).

Diagnosis and treatment

Your dermatologist will visually examine the mole. If it is potentially cancerous, a biopsy (small tissue sample) will be taken for analysis. This ensures an accurate diagnosis, because atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) visually resemble melanoma. If the lesion is cancerous, prompt treatment is critical. There are several methods of removing skin cancers. The best choice depends on several factors, including the type of skin cancer, where it is located, and how advanced it is.

If the mole is not cancerous, treatment may not be necessary. However, some patients opt to have benign moles removed as a preventive measure. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, an individual with ten or more atypical moles has a twelve percent higher risk of developing melanoma. If you choose not to have these moles removed, they should be monitored closely for signs of cancer.

When in doubt, don’t take chances. Skin cancer can spread rapidly, and the success of treatment is largely dependent on early diagnoses. If you have any concerns about an unusual mole, or any other skin growth or spot, call us at and arrange an examination to have it checked.