What Do We Treat?

Moles

Benign moles do not need to be treated. However, surgery may be performed to remove those that are unsightly or irritated.

Treatment for atypical moles includes surgery. Atypical moles that are cancerous or suspected of being cancerous can be removed surgically with local anesthesia. The mole tissue is examined under a microscope. If cancer cells are found, additional surgery is performed to remove any remaining portion of the mole and surrounding tissue.

To help prevent benign moles from becoming atypical (and possibly cancerous), you should avoid excessive exposure to the sun, and when in the sun, wear a hat and protective clothing and wear sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 15.