How Often Should I Have My Mole’s Checked & Should They Be Removed?

How Often Should I Have My Mole’s Checked & Should They Be Removed?

If you are like most people, you probably have at least one mole.  It is important to have your moles routinely checked for any changes or abnormalities.  The more moles that you have, the longer that the exam will take but a typical skin exam takes approximately 10-15 minutes.  Most moles typically develop during childhood or adolescence and may darken or lighten slightly over time.  The average person has between 10- 40 moles, some in more difficult places to see, so routine exams are the only way to track changes or concerns.

Because most moles develop in childhood or adolescence, any new moles that arise in adulthood are cause for concern and should be examined right away because they may be an early sign of melanoma.  Further, if you notice a change in shape, texture, or color in any of your moles, it is important to be seen by your physician because that may also be an early sign of melanoma.  Generally speaking, you should examine your moles once per month for any changes or irregularities.  This is particularly true if you have a family history of skin cancer.  WebMD provides a helpful description of what to look for when you do a self-examination of your moles:

The following ABCDEs are important signs of moles that could be skin cancer. If a mole displays any of the signs listed below, have it checked immediately by a dermatologist:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half
• Border: The border or edges of the mole are ragged, blurred, or irregular
• Color: The mole has different colors or it has shades of tan, brown, black, blue, white, or red
• Diameter: The diameter of the mole is larger than the eraser of a pencil
• Evolving: The mole appears different from others and/or changing in size, color, shape

While most moles are harmless, your doctor may want to remove a mole that appears suspicious.  Mole removal is fast, relatively painless and happens right in office without any stitches.  If a mole has been removed due to concern over its appearance, it will be sent to a lab for diagnostic evaluation and testing.  Removal of normal, non-concerning moles is no longer thought to have the same skin cancer prevention benefits and should only be done if there is concern over appearance or for cosmetic reasons.  Speak to your physician if you notice any concerning moles during self-examination and be sure to have your skin checked routinely by a qualified physician.