Moles Specialist

Allen Sapadin, MD

Dermatologists & Aesthetic Specialists located in Hackensack, NJ

Moles are usually harmless, but in some cases, they hide cancer. If you have a new or suddenly changing mole, it’s important to have experienced medical dermatologist Allen Sapadin, MD, in Hackensack, New Jersey, check it out. Mole removal is usually very quick and easily done in an outpatient appointment. Use online booking or call the office to schedule your appointment now.

201-525-0057

Moles

What are moles?

Moles are skin growths, and most adults have at least some of them. Moles are usually benign, but sometimes skin cancer begins inside them. Moles are typically round and brown in color, although they may be skin-colored, pink, or tan. If your moles suddenly look different, see Dr. Sapadin for a skin cancer screening.

What are the warning signs that a mole could be cancerous?

Use the A-B-C-D-E checklist to look for cancer warning signs:

Asymmetry: moles should be generally balanced in size and shape
Borders: edges of moles should be smooth, not jagged
Color: mole color should be consistent throughout
Diameter: mole size should be smaller than a pencil eraser
Evolution: mole should be stable, without significant changes

Use this checklist to evaluate your moles at least once a month. If you notice any changes, see Dr. Sapadin promptly. It's also best to see Dr. Sapadin for skin cancer screenings at least once a year.

What if I have a new mole?

A new mole isn't necessarily a sign that something's wrong, but it's relatively rare for adults to develop them. Take a proactive approach to new moles by having Dr. Sapadin check them out. Sometimes, this may include a biopsy to check for cancerous tissue.

What if my mole is cancerous?

If Dr. Sapadin diagnoses skin cancer in your mole, you can get treatment right away. Even melanoma, the most dangerous kind of skin cancer, has a 99% survival rate if you're diagnosed and treated before it spreads.

There are several different treatment methods, and Dr. Sapadin prescribes the treatment that removes your cancer as completely as possible. For melanoma, the best option is usually excision of both your mole and a small amount of the tissue around it. You may also need chemotherapy or radiation, depending on the situation.

For basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma within moles, Dr. Sapadin may freeze off the growth (cryosurgery), prescribe topical creams to destroy the mole, or use phototherapy.

Use the online scheduler or call to make your appointment at Allen Sapadin, MD, for help with your moles now.

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