What Are Moles and Skin Growths?
At Sandhu Dermatology & Med Spa, we offer routine mole checks for patients of the Greater West Palmdale, CA area. Most adults have some type of mole or skin growth on their body somewhere. A mole is a lesion on the skin that is caused by a bundle of pigmented cells. During mole evaluations, we analyze, measure, and document the size, shape, and development of moles and other skin growths on the body to guarantee they're safe and not changing or cancerous. They may be black, brown, or a combination of the colors and could appear independently or in groups. Moles may also be flush with the skin or seem like a round bulge. While most are harmless, some may develop into cancer. If you have moles and are uncertain about the severity of one, or if one has become bothersome, it's essential to inform a professional — especially when one begins to change in size or shape or starts to itch or bleed.
How Are Moles and Skin Growths Treated?
Most moles do not need treatment unless they become cancerous or suspicious, or if they cause irritation, discomfort, or aesthetic issues. In these situations, your mole or growth might need to be excised. During surgical excision, the area near the mole or growth will be numbed with a local anesthetic, and a scalpel or similar tool will be used to remove the mole and some surrounding skin cells. The wound is then closed with sutures. When the mole is surface level, a surgical shave can be utilized where the area is numbed and a small blade is used to cut all around and beneath the mole. Stitches aren't required with this procedure.
What Are the Benefits of Treatment?
At Sandhu Dermatology & Med Spa, we know that moles and skin growths can cause stress and anxiety that interfere with your overall well-being. With several location options for you to choose from, treating these lesions at one of our practices in West Palmdale, Ridgecrest, and Tehachapi, CA is a simple option to ease your mind and provides a variety of benefits, such as:
- Quick, in-office procedure
- Lessens tenderness in the affected area
- Increases confidence
- Decreases the chance of cancer or malignancy
Moles and Skin Growths Reviews
This is a great dermatologist. Highly recommended. I had 2 moles removed by Dr. Sandhu, and he did a fantastic job, especially for both moles being on my head. I also received 2 separate courtesy calls from his office to check if the healing of them were going well. If I ever have a similar need I will definitely be going back to him.
I highly recommend Dr.Sandhu's office for all your skin needs. I have seen Dr.Sandhu in the 90s and he has removed various moles. I have seen Michelle for tattoo removal, and I had the pleasure of meeting the daughter of Dr.Sandhu , who is also a doctor at the office , today. I was so frustrated because I have been to Urgent care, ER, and they didn't do anything for me. Dr.Sandhu took the time to take pictures, consult with her colleagues and refer me to the correct place. Thank you so much!!!! I'm so grateful for the whole team.
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What Causes Moles and Skin Growths?
Moles form when pigment-producing skin cells called melanocytes grow in clusters instead of spreading evenly throughout the skin. These cells are responsible for melanin production, which gives your skin its natural tone. As a result, moles and skin growths can appear darker or more noticeable over time, especially with sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations during adolescence, or pregnancy. Genetics can also play a role in the development of common moles, atypical moles, and other benign skin lesions. In some cases, changes in size, shape, or color may signal the need for a skin cancer screening to rule out concerns such as melanoma warning signs or other forms of skin cancer.
Does insurance cover mole removal?
Coverage depends on whether removal is medically necessary. If a mole is suspicious, changing, or causing irritation, insurance may help offset costs. Cosmetic removals, however, are typically self-pay. Our team can provide documentation for medically indicated procedures.
Are skin cancer moles always raised?
No, cancerous moles can be flat, raised, or irregular in texture. Warning signs include changes in color, shape, or size, or borders that look uneven. Our team recommends prompt evaluation of any mole that looks different from the rest.
Do moles get bigger with age?
Some moles can enlarge slowly over time due to sun exposure or hormonal changes, while others remain stable. Rapid growth or new moles in adulthood should always be checked. Our team can monitor changes and perform biopsies if needed.
Schedule Your Mole Check
Whether you find a mole that is unattractive, bothersome, or strange in appearance (that may be a sign of melanoma), it is time to call Sandhu Dermatology & Med Spa to learn about your treatment options. Our West Palmdale, Ridgecrest, and Tehachapi, CA practices specialize in handling an extensive array of moles and skin growths, from benign to cancerous. If we find that you have a cancerous mole, we will select the correct approach for your treatment. We are devoted to providing you with the level of care that you deserve.