What are Moles?
Dr. Renee Snyder and her team of board-certified dermatologists offer routine mole checks for patients throughout the greater Austin, TX, area. During mole checks, we examine, measure, and document the size, shape, and growth of moles on the body to ensure they are safe and not changing or cancerous. Most people have a mole of some sort on their body. A mole is a skin growth resulting from a cluster of pigmented cells. They can be brown, black, or a variation of these colors and can appear alone or in groups. Moles can also be flat or appear as a round bump. While some individuals are born with moles, it is common to develop them later in life, and although most are harmless, some can develop into cancer. If you have moles on your body and are unsure of the health of one, or if one becomes bothersome, it is necessary to see a dermatologist, especially if one begins to change in size or shape or if it itches or bleeds.
What Causes Moles?
Moles, also known as nevi, are caused by the growth of clusters of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. While the exact cause of mole formation is not fully understood, a combination of genetic factors and sun exposure plays a significant role. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can stimulate melanocytes, leading to the development of new moles or changes in existing ones. Hormonal changes during puberty and pregnancy can also influence the number and appearance of moles. Most moles are benign, but they should be monitored for any size, shape, color, or texture changes, as these can be signs of malignant transformation.
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Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today to speak with a member of the Snyder Dermatology team. We’re here to address your concerns with compassionate and effective care.
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I love Dr. Mary, Parker! She’s always on time or early, extremely friendly, and she put me at ease with her sense of humor and kindness. Visiting her is like hanging out with a friend and she takes really great care of me. She’s fast and efficient and very competent and caring. I highly recommend her!
-Amy A.
Having been a patient of Snyder Dermatology for over 10 years, they have consistently demonstrated professionalism, courtesy, and sensitivity to patient needs and concerns. Their staff and Dermatologists are highly trained and the best in the Healthcare industry. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
-Jim B.
“Dr. Rene Snyder is saving me from skin cancer. Over the years she has found numerous precancer spots on me, each time treating them with great care and minimal discomfort. And she offers a wide range of cosmetic treatments so I can age gracefully. I’m a lifelong fan.”
-Kim S.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
MEET OUR DOCTORS
Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
Symptoms of Moles
A typical mole is a brown spot found virtually anywhere on the body, including the fingers, toes, scalp, and even under the fingernails. The most common areas for most to collect are on the trunk or on the back of an individual. Moles can take on various sizes and shapes and range in color from black, tan, pink, blue, or red. In general, moles are about 6 mm or ¼ of an inch in diameter. While most moles are benign, some can be diagnosed as dysplastic, which means it is an active mole and is changing. This change may result in no visible difference in size, shape, or color or turn into a cancerous growth. In some cases, this is known as melanoma and, if not treated, can be life-threatening.
Moles can be cancerous if they exhibit the following:
- Asymmetrical: They are not even or equal in size when cut in half.
- Borders: They have irregular or scalloped borders.
- Color: They begin to change color or have an uneven color.
- Diameter: They are larger than 6 mm in diameter.
- Evolves: They begin to evolve (grow or change) in color, shape, size, or height.
How are Moles Treated?
Most moles don’t warrant treatment, but if a doctor determines any to be suspicious or cancerous or if a patient complains of discomfort, irritation, or cosmetic issues, the doctor may need to remove the mole. In surgical excision, the area around the mole will be locally numbed and a scalpel or similar device is used to remove the mole and some surrounding skin. The wound will then be closed with stitches. Sometimes, if the mole is surface level, a surgical shave can be performed where the area is locally numbed, and a small blade is used to cut all around and beneath the mole. Stitches are not required for this method.
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you have bothersome or unattractive moles or ones that are unusual in appearance and could point to a sign of melanoma, it is time to contact our office of specially-trained board-certified dermatologists to find out your treatment options. Our office specializes in treating a wide variety of moles from those that are benign to cancerous ones. If we find any moles to be cancerous, we can treat you from the initial consultation to choosing the right procedure to post-op care. We are committed to providing you with the level of care that you require and deserve.