A dermatologist’s trained eye can often tell whether a spot is a mole. Most moles do not require treatment. A dermatologist will remove a mole that is bothersome (for example, rubs against clothing or jewelry), unattractive to a patient or most importantly, suspicious for skin cancer.

A dermatologist can usually remove a mole during an office visit, but occasionally, a patient may need to return for a second visit. Moles are safely and easily removed.

A dermatologist will use one of the following procedures:

• Surgical shave: The dermatologist uses a scalpel or dermablade (razor blade-like device) to “shave” the mole off. In most cases, a pathologist will examine your mole under a microscope. If cancer or abnormal cells are found, your dermatologist will let you know and additional surgery may be needed.
• Surgical excision: The dermatologist cuts out the entire mole with a scalpel or punch device and stitches the skin closed. A pathologist will examine your mole under a microscope. If cancer or abnormal cells are found, your dermatologist will let you know and additional surgery may be needed.

Once a mole is removed, the skin will heal, sometimes with a small scar. If the mole grows back, immediately make another appointment to see your dermatologist. This could be a warning sign for skin cancer.

Never try to remove a mole at home even if it might seem easy or more convenient.

The reasons a dermatologist should remove a mole in the office are:

• Skin cancer: If the mole contains skin cancer, some of the cancer cells may remain and even spread.
• Scarring: You can disfigure your skin causing a scar.
• Infection: A dermatologist uses sterile equipment to prevent infection