Moles are a type of skin growth. They are usually brown or black and can form in groups or alone. By adulthood, it is common to have 10-40 moles. Some moles can fade over time and some will change in color and shape and become bothersome or a cause of embarrassment. Mole removal is a standard procedure that should be done by a qualified professional. Dr. Maurice Khosh is a double board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City that is ready to assist you if feel you have a mole that needs to be removed.
Mole removal is performed as an outpatient procedure with minimal pain. They can be removed by shave removal, punch biopsy, excise/cut technique, and laser removal.
Shave removal: A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area. A sharp scalpel is used to remove the raised mole and a small pink spot is usually left after removal.
Punch biopsy: A local anesthetic is applied to the area and a sharp cylindrical punch is used to remove the round section of skin where the mole is located. A couple of stitches may be needed to close the area.
Excise/Cut technique: A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area. The doctor uses a sharp scalpel or surgical scissors to cut out the entire mole. Stitches will be required to close the area.
Laser removal: This can be used for those hard to reach brown/black moles that are flushed with the skin. A laser is used to remove the mole tissue and will be removed after about 3 treatments.
No matter if your mole is wanted or unwanted it is always good to have your moles checked regularly and to always wear sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen) when outside. In New York City, call Dr. Maurice Khosh to schedule a consultation for your mole removals today.
