Moles are common, but when a mole that's growing, itching, bleeding, or changing in any way including change in color, size and shape, it may be a sign of Melanoma.

Moles can differ in size, shape, or color. Moles can have hair. Some moles will change slowly over time, possibly even disappear. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin. To identify the dangerous mole with remote possibility of developing in to Melanoma, it is easy to following acronym: ABCDE

A = Asymmetry of shape

B = Border which is irregular.

C = Color which varies from shades of tan, brown, or black

D = Diameter. Melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)

E = Evolving. Changing in size, shape, or color.

There are many methods of mole removal like:

Surgical excision where the mole is removed after giving local anesthesia and the skin is stitched up under aseptic conditions. Later the removed mole is sent for biopsy to be examined under microscope for detailed analysis.

Punch excision where the area of mole is removed using special punches designed for the purpose.

Q switched Laser can be used to remove the mole without much pain and for avoiding cuts& scars. Dr.Sudha Vani’s Sri Skin and Cosmetology Centre have best Q Switched Laser technology for the purpose.

Radio Frequency is used for small moles

Self examine your moles. Any change in shape ,color or size, please consult us for expert opinion. Dr.Sudha Vani has 19 years of experience in the field of dermatology and she can guide you.

Avoid excessive sun exposure as it is believed that it increases the number of moles. More number of moles (about 100 or more) means more risk of having skin cancer. Therefore an expert guidance by an experienced dermatologist is required to recommend you on use of sun screens appropriate for your skin type.