A mole is essentially a minor dermal abnormality. They develop on your skin based on your genetics, and they can change in size and shape depending on certain environmental factors. This could include unprotected sun exposure, dermal health, and other factors. It’s also not unheard of for new moles to develop as you age.
Sometimes a mole that develops on a visible part of your body can cause you to feel self-conscious about your appearance. Our plastic surgeon, Dr. Natalie Driessen can often remove an unappealing mole in a single outpatient appointment. The mode of treatment she recommends will be based on the mole’s location and size. Sometimes a small mole can be shaved down until it is smooth and flush with the surrounding skin. At this point, the doctor can then cauterize the area to reduce the chances of redevelopment. If the wart extends into the deeper layers of the dermis she might use a special laser treatment to alter the cells. In the case of a large or deep mole, the doctor might need to physically excise the mole with a scalpel. Our plastic surgeon will then stretch and adapt the surrounding skin before suturing to reduce any visible scarring.
If you live in the Palm Desert, California, region and are concerned about a mole, you should call 760-773-6616 to schedule a consultation at Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Specialists.