Benign Skin Lesion Removal

Benign (non-cancerous) skin growths include melanocytic nevi (moles), seborrheic keratoses, cysts, warts, vascular growths such as cherry hemangiomas, and sun-induced spots such as ephelides (freckles) and solar lentigines (brown age spots). Though most of these growths will remain harmless, some may rarely develop into cancer over time. In addition, skin cancers sometimes mimic benign lesions.

When to consult

Skin growths such as “moles” exhibiting any of the following warning signs should be examined by one of our providers immediately:

• Sudden growth.

• Itching, irritation or bleeding.

• Rapid changes in color, size or shape.

• Multiple colors.

• Location where it can’t be easily monitored, such as on the scalp.

Treatments

Depending on their depth, location and color, as well as the patient’s skin type, age and other factors, treatment for benign but unattractive skin growths may take the form of cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen freezing), laser or pulsed light therapy, microdermabrasion, a scraping procedure called electrodessication and curettage, or surgical excision.

It is important to note that the removal of some benign lesions is considered cosmetic and therefore not covered by many insurances. An out-of-pocket cosmetic fee will be shared with you if you elect to schedule a visit to have these removed.