Moles and Skin Tags

Moles are common pigmented growths; skin tags are benign soft flaps. Evaluated for changes and removed for cosmetic or medical reasons.

What is Moles and Skin Tags

A mole is a growth on the skin that develops out of clusters of pigment-forming cells called melanocytes. Most individuals have at least one mole somewhere on their body. Moles are usually not cancerous, but because they have the potential to develop into cancer, it’s always a good idea to have new or changing moles examined by a dermatologist. Dr. Payne of Flourish Dermatology And Aesthetics provides routine mole checks for patients in the Greater New Orleans, LA area. During mole checks, she examines, measures, and documents the size, shape, and growth of moles on the body to ensure they are not changing, concerning, or cancerous. If you have moles and are uncertain as to whether it looks “normal” or has changed, or if a mole has become bothersome, then it is necessary to inform your dermatologist — especially when a mole begins to change in shape or size or starts to bleed or itch.

Symptoms & Indicators

Pigmented skin growths

Small, fleshy, brown flaps in your skin folds

Usually no other symptoms

It usually happens because

Moles: clusters of melanocytes

Skin tags: skin rubbing together

Obesity

Hormonal factors

Genetics

How do we treat Moles and Skin Tags

If a mole is displaying warning signs of being precancerous or is causing irritation or cosmetic issues, Dr. Payne may suggest having it removed. In these situations, Dr. Payne may need to remove the mole(s). In surgical excision, the area around the mole will be locally numbed, and a scalpel or similar device is utilized to remove the mole and some surrounding skin cells. The wound will then be closed with sutures. At times, if the mole is flush with the skin, a surgical shaving method can be used. In this procedure, the area is locally numbed, and a small blade is used to cut all around and under the mole. Stitches are not required for this method.

Larger skin tags are often removed with surgical excision, too. However, they can also be burned off using laser treatments or frozen off with liquid nitrogen. New skin tags may form in the future, which is why some patients schedule regular skin tag treatments to keep their skin clear.

After Treatment

Removing them can improve your comfort and appearance, especially if they catch on clothing or jewelry. It also lets suspicious moles be checked for cancer, which can give you peace of mind.