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4 Signs You May Need to Get Your Mole Removed

Mole removal can be done for cosmetic purposes, although in this case your insurance is unlikely to cover it, but if you're like a lot of people you may not have time in your busy life for doctors' appointments unless it's urgent. Moles can be urgent, though, since in some cases they can develop into skin cancer and if you have one that's acting suspiciously it's best to have it removed just in case it decides to do that later. Here are some signs that your mole may be suspicious and should be checked out by your doctor for potential removal.

1. The mole is inconsistent or "different"

Most moles are totally benign, but those that are developing into cancer are often different in appearance. For example, such a mole might have differences in color or variations in color throughout the same mole. Or it might have an oddly shaped border, or an asymmetrical shape. Even a mole that's overly large may be considered suspicious. Check the borders of the mole for clarity as well; if they're not well-defined and it's hard to tell where the mole stops and the rest of your skin starts, that could be a bad sign.

2. The mole isn't how you remembered it

If you have a mole on a hard-to-reach spot on your back that you don't look at very often and suddenly one day you notice that the mole looks different than it did before, that could be a warning sign as well. If it's changed in shape, color, or size, you should have your doctor take a look at it. You won't necessarily have to have it removed, but it's a possibility.

3. The mole gives you trouble

Bleeding, itching, and other discomfort are potential warning signs as well. Most moles are fairly inert; they shouldn't give you more trouble than the rest of your skin. If they do, consider it a potential issue and have it checked out.

4. The mole is new

New moles can develop, but this usually happens while you're a child or a young adult. You should always have new moles looked at, but it's more urgent if you're older than this age range. Keep an eye out for new moles especially if you're older than 20 or so.

These four signs can all demonstrate that one of your moles may be a candidate for urgent mole removal. Be sure to consult resources like Associated Skin Care Specialists to learn more. Mole removal is a simple, quick process and your doctor can have the removed mole biopsied to make sure it hasn't become malignant yet.