Melanocytic Naevi (Moles)
Most moles are harmless, but knowing the warning signs worth checking matters more than removing every mole you have.
Book a Mole EvaluationHave a mole you'd like removed for cosmetic reasons?
An evaluation confirms the mole is benign and discusses removal options if that's what you'd like.
A mole that's changed in size, shape, or color?
Any mole showing asymmetry, an irregular border, multiple colors, a diameter larger than a pencil eraser, or recent evolution deserves a prompt evaluation.
What Is It?
Melanocytic naevi, commonly known as moles, are usually harmless pigmented growths that most people have in some number. The recognized warning signs worth checking are asymmetry, an irregular border, multiple or uneven colors, a diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and any recent evolution in size, shape, or color — these are worth a prompt evaluation rather than a wait-and-see approach.
Most moles need no treatment at all. For moles that a patient wants removed for cosmetic or comfort reasons, or where a mole shows any features raising a clinical question, removal or biopsy is performed to provide either cosmetic resolution or definitive pathology confirmation.
Risk Factors
- Sun exposure over time
- Fair skin type
- Family history of atypical moles or melanoma
- Large number of moles overall
Symptoms
- Typically round or oval, with even color and a well-defined border
- Can be flat or slightly raised
- Generally stable in appearance over time
Treatment
- Dermoscopy Examination: Magnified examination of a mole's features to assess whether it appears typical or warrants closer attention.
- Biopsy: Where a mole's nature isn't clear on examination alone, a biopsy provides a definitive answer.
- Surgical Removal: For moles removed for cosmetic reasons or based on clinical concern, in-clinic removal under local anaesthesia.
Our Specialists
Book a Mole Evaluation
Schedule a comprehensive evaluation at CRISPR Skin and Hair Clinic. Choose your preferred time and secure your slot instantly.
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