Moles, medically known as nevi, are common skin growths that are usually brown or black in color. They can appear anywhere on the body, either alone or in groups. Moles form when skin cells, which give skin its pigment, grow in clusters instead of being evenly spread across the skin. As a result, moles often appear darker than the surrounding skin. While moles are generally harmless, it is crucial to monitor them for any changes, as melanoma (the most serious form of skin cancer) can develop in or around a mole. If you are looking for a best skin doctor near me, Dr. Harsimran Singh Chawla at Dr. Chawla Skin and Medicine Clinic offers expert care for mole evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.
Understanding Moles and Their Types
There are different types of moles, and some carry a higher risk of developing into melanoma. It’s important to know the different kinds of moles and when they may need medical attention. Here are the most common types:
Congenital Mole:
Congenital moles are moles that appear on the skin from birth. Approximately 1 in 100 people are born with one or more congenital moles. These moles vary in size, color, and shape. Larger congenital moles, measuring over 20 centimeters, are considered “giant” and may have an increased risk of developing into melanoma.
Atypical Mole:
Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are usually larger than normal moles (more than ¼ inch in diameter) and may have irregular shapes or uneven colors. These moles often run in families and are considered the highest risk for developing into melanoma.
Acquired Mole:
Acquired moles are those that appear after birth. These moles are usually harmless, but people who develop more than 50 to 100 moles are at an increased risk of melanoma. Regular monitoring is essential to detect any changes in these moles early on. Read more here about Treating Dark Circles and Pigmentation: Effective Solutions for Brighter Skin.
Treatment for Moles at Dr. Chawla Skin and Medicine Clinic
If any of your moles appear suspicious or if you wish to have a mole removed for cosmetic reasons, Dr. Harsimran Singh Chawla can provide expert diagnosis and treatment. In cases where a mole is found to be cancerous, Dr. Chawla may perform a procedure to remove the entire mole along with surrounding tissue.
At Dr. Chawla Skin and Medicine Clinic, two common methods for mole removal are offered:
- Shave Excision: In this method, the area around the mole is numbed, and a small blade is used to shave off the mole. This procedure is typically used for smaller moles and does not require stitches.
- Excisional Surgery: For potentially cancerous moles, excisional surgery is often performed. Dr. Chawla will remove the mole along with a portion of the surrounding skin using a scalpel. This method typically requires stitches to close the wound.
Both procedures are safe and commonly performed in Dr. Harsimran Singh Chawla’s clinic, offering quick recovery times with minimal discomfort.
Prevention and Early Detection of Melanoma
The best way to protect yourself from the risks of melanoma is by knowing your moles and examining them regularly. Early detection is key to preventing serious issues, and Dr. Chawla recommends using the ABCDE method for self-examination of moles:
- A for Asymmetry: Look for moles that have an uneven shape or two halves that don’t match.
- B for Border: Be aware of moles with irregular, jagged, or blurry borders, which may be a sign of melanoma.
- C for Color: Check for moles with multiple colors, such as brown, black, blue, white, or red.
- D for Diameter: Moles larger than the size of a pencil eraser (about ¼ inch) should be monitored closely.
- E for Evolution: Watch for moles that change over time in terms of size, color, shape, or texture.
If you notice any of these changes, it’s crucial to contact the best skin doctor near yourself, Dr. Harsimran Singh Chawla, for a professional evaluation.
Protecting Your Skin: Sun Safety and Mole Prevention
To reduce the risk of developing melanoma and keep your moles healthy, it’s important to practice good sun safety. Dr. Chawla recommends:
- Avoiding the sun during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM) when UV rays are the strongest.
- Regularly applying sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation.
- Wearing protective clothing to shield moles from direct sun exposure.
- Keeping an eye on your moles and scheduling regular check-ups with Dr. Chawla to ensure they remain healthy.
Conclusion
Moles are common, and most of them are harmless, but it’s important to keep an eye on them for any signs of changes. With proper self-examination and the expertise of Dr. Harsimran Singh Chawla, the best skin doctor near you in Zirakpur, you can ensure that your moles are healthy and catch any potential signs of melanoma early. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Chawla Skin and Medicine Clinic today. We are here to help you maintain healthy, beautiful skin for life.