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Mole Removal in West Hills, CA

Say Goodbye to Unwanted Moles with Expert Care

Mole removal, which is different than mole biopsy, is designed to completely remove moles from the skin in a way that minimizes scarring and creates a smooth, discreet finish. Moles are categorized as brown or black skin growths caused by the clustering of skin pigment cells called melanocytes. They can be raised or flat and occur anywhere on the body.

Using a variety of different techniques, we can safely and effectively remove moles from any location. This process is virtually painless for nearly all our patients thanks to local anesthetic, and your recovery requires zero downtime. Best of all, removing a mole is a permanent solution to this common cosmetic concern when performed by our skilled and experienced doctor.

~ Mole Removal ~

What is a Mole?

Moles, or nevi, are common and normal, with most of the population having one or multiple. Adults with lighter skin tend to have more moles, ranging from 10 to 40, across their entire body. Moles usually develop during childhood and adolescence, growing in size as you grow up. Over time, moles may darken, lighten, and even disappear. These are regular changes.

A typical mole has the following characteristics:
● A single color, usually brown, but can also be tan, black, red, pink, blue, skin-toned, or colorless.
● Round or oval in shape.● Flat or slightly raised.● Stable appearance over months.

While moles share common traits, they can vary in size, shape, or color, even on the same person. Some may have hair, which can appear anywhere on the skin, including the scalp, between fingers and toes, on palms and soles, and even under nails.

When Should I Worry About a Mole?

Most moles are often benign and pose no harm or threat. However, there are circumstances when mole removal is necessary or recommended to avoid any complications. Here are some of the most common reasons you would need mole removal:

  • Suspicious Appearance

    Moles that change their size, shape, or color are worrisome. In addition, moles that appear suddenly and grow rapidly would be classified as atypical moles and are a cause for concern. These changes often signal potential abnormalities, including the early stages of skin cancer.

  • Discomfort or Irritation

    Moles can develop in areas where they cause pain or irritation. I.e., under the bra strap, shirt collars, or areas you shave, often causing issues from constantly being rubbed against clothing or accidentally nicked.

  • Cosmetic Concerns

    Although not medically necessary, some people remove moles for aesthetic reasons. Large or prominent moles on visible areas like the face or neck can impact self-confidence. Mole removal can help improve appearance and enhance your comfort with your skin.

  • Preventive Measures

    In some cases, people with a family history of skin cancer or multiple atypical moles may opt for preventive mole removal to minimize risks. A dermatologist can guide you on whether this option is suitable based on your medical history and skin type.

To ensure your health and safety, a dermatologist may recommend removing such moles for further examination through a skin biopsy.

If the biopsy confirms the mole is cancerous, complete removal, including some surrounding tissue, may be necessary to prevent the spread of cancer cells. Early detection and removal in these cases can be highly effective and significantly reduce risks.

Remove Mole West Hills, CA

How Is Mole Removal Performed?

Mole removal is a simple and effective procedure that our dermatologist can typically perform in a single office visit. The method used will depend on the size, type, and location of the mole, with two common techniques available:

SHAVE EXCISION

In a shave excision, your dermatologist numbs the area with local anesthesia and uses a thin, razor-like tool to shave the mole off your skin's surface gently.
To minimize scarring, they may also use a specialized tool with a tiny electrode to feather the edges of the wound. This technique blends the surrounding skin with the treated area, helping it heal more naturally and reducing visible scarring.

SURGICAL EXCISION

A surgical excision may be required for deeper or larger moles. We may use local anesthesia and a scalpel to remove the mole, extending down to the subcutaneous fat layer if necessary.
The resulting wound is then carefully closed with stitches to ensure proper healing and minimize scarring.

Regardless of the method, our dermatologists will send the removed mole to a laboratory for microscopic examination. This ensures the mole is thoroughly evaluated for any signs of cancer or atypical cells, providing peace of mind and promoting long-term health.

Schedule Mole Removal in West Hills, CA

Take the next step toward healthier skin with expert mole removal at West Hills Dermatology. We are proud to be the trust mole removal specialists in West Hills, CA, serving Bell Canyon, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Agora Hills, and Thousand Oaks. Our state-of-the-art facility is conveniently located in West Hills, a neighborhood in Los Angeles, California's western San Fernando Valley region.

Call (818) 592-6005 to schedule your mole removal consultation, or complete the form below.

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