Many of us have moles, some of which have been on our bodies since birth and others that appear over the years. Many are no cause for concern, but some moles can be cancerous, and keeping a close eye on the shape, size, and color of new and existing moles is an important part of monitoring your health.
Dr. Jeffrey Heller can help you keep your skin healthy by keeping track of your moles in Port Orange, and Daytona Beach, FL.
What causes moles?
Moles form when skin pigmentation cells congregate into a cluster, leading to a black or brown spot. Moles can be flat or raised, bumpy or smooth, large or small.
How do I know if my mole needs to be checked?
If your mole is painful or begins bleeding, make sure to visit your dermatologist. You should also make an appointment if your mole falls under the "ABCDE's" from the American Academy of Dermatology:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole is a different size, shape, or color
- Border: The perimeter of the mole is jagged, undefined, or scalloped
- Color: The mole is more than one shade or hue
- Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 mm
- Evolving: The mole is changed in shape, size, or color or looks unlike your other moles
If you see any of these signs, visit our offices to have your mole checked.
How will my dermatologist analyze my mole in Port Orange, and Daytona Beach, FL?
Your dermatologist may perform a biopsy of your mole if it looks concerning. After numbing the area, they will scrape off a sample of the mole, which will be analyzed for cancer cells. If cancer cells are present, your doctor will then discuss treatment options. If it is found early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
Make skin checks a part of your healthy routine. If you have concerns about a mole, reach out to Dr. Heller in Port Orange, or Daytona Beach, FL, at (386) 239-8700.