Mole Removal Specialist

Irradiance Medical Group Dermatology

Board Certified Dermatologists & Cosmetic Surgeons located in Little Tokyo, Downtown, Los Angeles, CA & Torrance, CA

While moles, freckles, and dark spots occur all the time, sometimes it may lead to more than just another spot on your shoulder or back. Dr. Christopher Ho knows how to identify troublesome moles, and has the required experience to remove them safely. He and his expert team at Irradiance Medical Group Dermatology: Christopher Ho, MD can perform mole removal procedures right in their Los Angeles offices in Torrance and Little Tokyo. Contact Dr. Ho and the team to learn more about the procedure today.

Mole Removal Q & A

Why do some moles need to be removed?

While most moles are benign, some are cancerous or potentially-cancerous. Healthy moles are the result of melanocytes -- skin cells that produce pigmentation -- clustering. Other times, moles result from atypical cell growth common in cancer cells. To ensure that these cells don’t spread, Dr. Ho recommends mole removal.

How do you know if a mole needs removed?

Most moles have a uniform, symmetrical appearance, and are typically considered safe. Dr. Ho may recommend removing moles that:

Appear asymmetrical
Have different pigmentation
Change appearance over time
Have irregular borders
Bleed or crust

If you have a mole that gets irritated, is growing, or that you’re concerned over, contact Dr. Ho. You may opt to have a mole removed for cosmetic reasons, even if it doesn’t appear cancerous or atypical.

How are moles removed?

Dr. Ho can remove the mole in various ways. Before removing your mole, he numbs your skin with an anesthetic, limiting your discomfort.

Sometimes Dr. Ho cuts moles from the skin. Depending on how deep the structure’s cells go, it may be “shaved” off and leveled with the skin. If the mole is rooted below the skin, Dr. Ho removes those cells using a deeper cut. In these circumstances, you may need stitches.

In other instances, Dr. Ho may recommend freezing the mole. Using liquid nitrogen, he sprays or swabs the area, freezing and ultimately killing the cells. A blister or scab forms and heals on its own. Similarly, Dr. Ho may opt to burn the mole off with an electric current.

After mole removal, Dr. Ho may apply a topical medication to reduce bleeding. He then bandages the area and reviews how to clean and care for it. If Dr. Ho suspects atypical or precancerous cell growth, he may send the mole to a lab for a complete biopsy. The test results determine what type of care is provided.

If you have a mole you’d like removed, consult with Dr. Ho. He can determine what procedure best suits your needs. Call or schedule your appointment online today.