Mole Removal in Columbus, OH

Although moles are common and generally do not pose a medical concern, many people in the Greater Columbus area prefer to undergo mole removal. Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham is a board-certified dermatologist who is uniquely qualified to perform mole removal to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

What is Mole Removal?

Moles are clusters of colored skin cells that can range from being just slightly above the surface of the skin to quite prominent. Estimates indicate that most people have between 10 to 45 moles on their faces and bodies, yet most moles look similar to freckles. Moles normally develop before 40 years of age when an overproduction of melanocytes occur. Melanocytes are special cells that produce melanin, a substance that adds pigmentation, or color to your skin, hair, and eyes.

Mole Removal Benefits

Many of our patients are concerned that their moles are actually skin cancer. While it is true that malignant melanoma skin cancer can resemble a mole, the primary difference is that cancerous growths change in size, color, and appearance. Mole removal is primarily performed for cosmetic reasons. Some patients also choose mole removal because the growth significantly protrudes from the skin and is often chafed or accidently cut.

Is Mole Removal Safe for All Areas of the Face and Body?

As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Hicks-Graham can safely perform mole removal on any part of the face or body.

What Can I Expect From Mole Removal?

Dr. Hicks-Graham will verify that your growth is a mole and not related to malignant melanoma. Once she determines that the growth is benign, or non-cancerous, she will explain the surgical procedure for removing the mole. During the procedure, she will take extra care to ensure that you do not have a significant scar.

Mole Removal Preparation

When you meet with Dr. Hicks-Graham, she will examine your mole, and she may take a small tissue sample (biopsy) to ensure that the growth is not cancerous. Mole removal is a quick and relatively easy surgical procedure, so no special preparation is needed.

Mole Removal Recovery

Moles are removed surgically by cutting around the growth, so you will have a small wound that is closed with sutures. You should keep the area clean and dry. Dr. Hicks-Graham may prescribe an antibiotic medication. Pain can usually be managed with an over-the-counter medication.

How Much Does Mole Removal Cost?

Mole removal may not be covered by insurance since the procedure is mostly cosmetic. The exception may be when a mole is frequently injured and increases your risk for infections. We will do everything we can to maximize the benefits under your insurance policy. Any balance that is not covered will be your responsibility. Payment can be made by cash, check, major credit card and CareCredit® financing.

Is Mole Removal Right for Me?

If you have a mole that is embarrassing or cumbersome, mole removal may be right for you. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hicks-Graham can explain the benefits of mole removal during your personal consultation.

Mole Removal Consultation

Dr. Hicks-Graham wants to ensure that your skin growth is a mole versus a sign of malignant melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer. She may biopsy the growth and inquire about any changes in size, shape and color that you may have noticed. Once she is confident that the growth is a mole, she will explain her recommendations for mole removal.Moles can be an embarrassing cosmetic problem for many people in the Greater Columbus area. At Downtown Dermatology, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham specializes in mole removal to help you feel more confident.