Raised Moles

How do raised moles form?

Raised moles form through a cluster of cells in the dermis which cause a raised bump in the skin as well as darker pigmentation.

There are 2 types of raised moles which have slightly different characteristics:

• Compound melanocytic naevi – brown bumps, usually hairy, may have a slightly warty surface.
• Intradermal melanocytic naevi – paler colour, often hairy, smoother surface

Aesthetically, a raised mole is more noticeable, especially if it is large, has an irregular shape, is dark in colour or hairy.

As they ‘stick out’, raised moles tend to be physically awkward, catching on clothing or getting in the way of regular grooming. When moles snag on zips, or catch on things, they can become damaged and this can lead to infection and this can be quite worrying.

When to seek help

If a mole changes and becomes larger or more pronounced, then it should always be investigated as a matter of urgency.

Equally, very large moles which are ‘unusual’ in some way – irregular shape, odd colour or discharge – should be shown to a doctor to rule out any concerns.

Thankfully, most raised moles are found to be benign, but they can still be problematic day to day and knowing the risks of skin cancer; many patients feel happier knowing that awkward moles have been checked, removed, tested and proven to be ‘safe’.

Mole removal

Mole removal is a very simple and quick procedure offered at Cosmedics Skin Clinics with specially trained doctors.

The procedure is carried out using local anaesthetic to ensure that it is painless for the patient. Mole removal may be done using laser mole removal surgery.

However, for raised moles shave excision with a Dermablade might be more appropriate, or full surgical ellipse excision. There will be a tiny scar after healing which will fade to become white or silvery.

The raised and pigmented ‘mole’ area are removed fully and moles do not normally regrow after removal.