Mole Facts

The vast majority of moles are not cancerous and will never turn into a cancer.

In general moles do not present any type of health risk. One is more likely to die from a car accident than a moles turning into a cancer

Once a mole is observed, the treatment is entirely dependent on the patient. The majority of moles are only of cosmetic significance and there is little risk of cancer.

However any mole that rapidly changes color, shape, starts to ulcerate or bleed or grows in size, needs to examined to ensure that it is not cancerous

Moles that change shape, size, color, bleed or become ulcerated require medical attention

Moles in any part of the body can suddenly change and one has to be aware of their moles.

When the mole appears suspicion, it is important to see a dermatologist.

The only way to make a diagnosis of a cancer in a mole it by performing a biopsy and looking underneath a microscope

The mole can either be sliced in layers or the entire mole can be excised and examined underneath a microscope

If there is no cancer present in a mole, the mole does not require removal. In general moles cause no symptoms

If however, a mole is located in an area where it is constantly being rubbed, pressed or irritated, then removal is justified.

Mole removal can be done in a number of ways; the procedure can be done in a physicians' office under local anesthesia.

Shaving over a mole does not cause cancer; shaving may traumatize the mole and cause bleeding

Sometimes a mole will recur after it is removed. If a removed mole does begin to reappear, the patient should return to see the doctor.

Women normally hide moles by using cosmetic camouflage

There are many different ways to remove a mole and quite a few of these are very effective. The least desirable is laser.