Benign Moles
Scottsdale Skin Boutique & Dermatology is your premiere center for comprehensive medical, surgical, and aesthetic dermatologic care. Our expert medical professionals are proud to offer evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each of our patients' individual needs. Based in the heart of Scottsdale, it is our pleasure to care for patients from Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix and surrounding communities in the Valley of the Sun.
Experience Scottsdale Skin Boutique & Dermatology:
Concierge Quality Care Accessible to All
What are Benign Moles?
Moles are very common and very normal growths on the skin. Almost all adults have at least one mole. They come in a wide variety of colors, ranging from shades of brown to pink. Some are flat and some are raised. However, some skin cancers like melanoma can mimic a mole. Changes in your moles including color, size, and shape can be indicative of an atypical mole or melanoma. A tool to help you identify a mole that may be melanoma is the ABCDE checklist:
- A - Asymmetry. One half of the mole does not look like the other half.
- B - Border. The outline of the mole is irregular.
- C - Color. More than one color can be seen, such as brown, black, red, blue, and white.
- D - Diameter. A mole larger than 6 mm (1/4 inch), which is roughly the size of a pencil eraser.
- E - Evolving. Changes in the mole over time.
At Scottsdale Skin Boutique & Dermatology we advise monthly self skin examinations to help you familiarize yourself with your moles and to detect any changes early. We also recommend at least annual full body skin examinations. If you have a benign mole that you would like removed, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our expert dermatology providers. Please understand that removing benign moles is strictly for aesthetic purposes, as they have little potential to become atypical or cancerous.
How are Benign Moles Treated at Scottsdale Skin Boutique & Dermatology?
No single treatment works for everyone. Factors such as age, location, and previous therapy may guide treatment decisions. The expert dermatology providers at Scottsdale Skin Boutique & Dermatology will help you choose which treatments are best for your benign mole as well as review the risks and benefits. Options include:
- Expert examination
- Skin biopsy
- Surgical removal
What Can I Expect after My Benign Mole Treatment?
The recurrence rate and aesthetic results will depend on a variety of factors. Treatment performed, type and size of the benign mole, location on the body, skin elasticity, and sun damage will play a role. Optimal healing may require activity restrictions from 1-3 weeks depending on the site and complexity of the procedure. Swelling, bruising, tenderness, and mild discomfort are normal following treatment and typically resolve within a few days.
Am I a Good Candidate for Benign Mole Treatments?
If you are concerned with the appearance of your moles and would like to explore treatment options at Scottsdale Skin Boutique & Dermatology, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our expert dermatology providers to discuss your unique concerns.
The expert medical professionals at Scottsdale Skin Boutique & Dermatology are proud to offer comprehensive, personalized treatments for a variety of medical, surgical, and aesthetic dermatologic concerns. Please contact us to schedule your appointment today at 480-998-1400. We look forward to demonstrating our commitment to your care.