What is a Mole?
A mole (also known as a melanocytic naevus) is when pigment cells (melanocytes) within the skin group together. They are very common and many people are born with them or develop them with age.
How do moles develop?
They can be a result of increased production of melanocytes, which is harmless. They can develop spontaneously or can be caused due to over exposure of sunlight. The main concern with moles is that some may go on to develop malignant melanoma. This is a serious form of skin cancer and therefore it is essential it is spotted and treated early.
However, moles tend to be harmless but can be unwanted aesthetically. Some people see them as an imperfection. There are treatments available to remove them for cosmetic purposes.
Check your moles
The moles should be examined every 3 months by the patients themselves. At Miravue Skin Clinic, a mole mapping clinic is held to assess moles and detect changes not visible to the naked eye. People who have too many moles to be able to examine themselves should attend a Miravue mole mapping clinic.
Mole removal
Mole removal is either done by shave excisions or hyfrecation.
Shave excision, a minor surgical procedure, involves a local anaesthetic injection and small incision to remove the mole. Hyfrecation involves passing small an electric currant through the mole, effectively destroying it. A topical anaesthetic cream is applied beforehand to make this procedure comfortable and pain-free.
Recommended Treatment:
- Mole Removal
- Mole Mapping