Moles Specialist
McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery
Dermatologists and Aesthetic Specialists located in , Flower Mound, Plano, Prosper, Murphy & Richardson, TX
Most adults have between 10 and 40 moles in various locations on their skin, and they’re completely normal. But if you have a mole or mole that causes you concern, consult the expert dermatology team at McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery with locations in Plano, Flower Mound, Prosper, and Murphy, Texas. They offer evaluation, monitoring, diagnosis, and – if necessary – treatment. Call one of the locations or book an appointment online to have suspicious moles evaluated today.
Moles Q & A
What are normal moles?
A normal mole may be almost any color and is round or oval in shape. A normal mole can be rough or smooth, as well as raised or retracted, singular or clustered. Usually, a mole is smaller than one-quarter inch in size. Most moles appear before you reach the age of 40, but sometimes normal moles may appear later.
Should I be worried about moles?
Moles are usually harmless and never change. But some moles can become melanoma – a particularly deadly type of skin cancer. Suspicious moles have some of the following characteristics (known as the ABCDEs):
- Asymmetry, in which one part of the mole is different than the other
- Border issues with scalloping and poor definitions
- Color changes, in which the color is different throughout with shades of browns and blacks or white, red, and blue
- Diameter is larger than six millimeters
- Evolving, where you notice the mole has changed or is changing in color, size, or shape
If you notice any of these signs and symptoms of a potentially cancerous mole, consult McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery’ team of expert dermatologists. A regular total body skin check helps identify questionable moles that may escape your self-exams.
What happens during a total body skin check?
For a total body skin check, you undress and put on a medical drape or hospital attire. The dermatologist from McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery then examines the entire surface of your body from head to toe, including between your fingers and toes, your armpits, your scalp, your buttocks, and your genitals. The doctor also looks at your mouth, tongue, eyes, gums, and lymph nodes.
How often do I need a total body skin check?
The frequency of your total body skin checks depends on your risk of skin cancer. It depends on your sun exposure history and family history of skin cancer. If you’ve had skin cancer in the past, you may need more regular checks as well.
To have your moles evaluated and monitored, call one of the offices of McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery or book an appointment online.
What we offer
