Before a mole removal, you should ask your healthcare provider several questions. Ask about any changes in the mole, family history, or frequent exposure to ultraviolet radiation. If possible, ask if the mole was removed as a preventative measure or to check for cancer.
Moles are a Risk for Skin Cancer
A mole is a cluster of skin cells that can develop anywhere in the body. They are often harmless, but you should have them checked by a doctor if they become darker than normal or start to change in color. If you suspect a mole might be cancerous, you should have it ready for mole removal Memphis, TN. You can also have it removed if it gets in the way of shaving or dressing.
Before the procedure, you should numb the skin around the mole and clean the skin. The healthcare provider will then apply numbing medication to the site and may inject it. After the procedure, you should follow all instructions given by your health provider for caring for the wound. In some cases, the wound may bleed, but this is common. You should follow the wound care instructions closely to reduce the risk of infection.
Have Them Removed If it is cancerous
It is important to have moles checked regularly by your healthcare provider to ensure they are not cancerous. The procedure is relatively simple and well-tolerated. However, some people may be concerned that their mole may return. If your healthcare provider suspects your mole might be cancerous, you should consider having it removed.
A mole removal procedure usually involves lying down on a treatment couch. Your healthcare provider will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. The specialist will then remove the mole and a small area of surrounding skin. After the procedure, your healthcare provider may stitch the wound to prevent it from healing too quickly.
Punch Biopsy
A punch biopsy is a diagnostic test for cancer that involves removing a piece of skin and examining the sample for any sign of cancer. This test is typically performed by a plastic surgeon or a skin specialist. The sample is often removed with a local anesthetic, and the resulting specimen will be sent for further testing. The procedure involves removing a section of skin, which may include some surrounding tissue. If the resulting sample contains cancer cells, further tests may be required.
A punch biopsy is most commonly performed to diagnose melanoma. This procedure involves removing a piece of the suspicious mole or growth with a surgical knife and sending it for analysis. The sample is sent to a lab for examination under a microscope to determine whether the mole is cancerous. Results can take a couple of days or a week.
Stitches
The mole removal process can be very painful. Sometimes, you will be given local anesthesia before the procedure and may even need stitches. Once the process is complete, you can go home. You may experience bleeding after the procedure, and stitches may be needed if the mole is deep.
You should expect to have a bandage covering the wound for several days. This is to prevent any infection from spreading. Your physician will probably have you apply ointment after the procedure to keep the wound moist and prevent it from developing a scab over the stitches.
