At North Branch Dermatology, you have expert skin care thanks to Dr. Elizabeth Fahrenbach and Dr. Joanna "Asia" Jaros. Your skin is your largest organ, so you need the most compassionate and trustworthy skin doctors to review and treat related problems. Your doctors want you to understand what to look for at home. In other words, if you live in Chicago, IL, a mole check plays a vital role in your skin and overall health.

What Is a Mole?

Many people have moles, and most can be harmless. A mole is usually a brown or black growth that can occur anywhere on your body, from your face to your hands to your legs. Some people may have one distinctive mole on their faces, such as a famous model, Cindy Crawford. However, many people may have several moles all over their body.

This skin formation occurs due to skin cells growing in clusters. It is not uncommon for some moles to appear later in life. When these younger moles pop up, be extra cautious to ensure they are harmless benign ones and not dangerous malignant ones. Understanding how to evaluate them can be the first step in preventing skin cancer, which is still the most common form of cancer diagnosed in the United States.

How Should You Evaluate Moles?

As any dermatologist will tell you, there are specific guides for assessing whether you may have a harmless mole or one that may be a sign of cancer. When doing a mole check in Chicago, IL, look at the size, shape, and color. Most moles should be symmetrical. Be aware if the shape or color continues to change. Your mole should be one uniform color and no larger than 6 mm in diameter. Note if any new ones look very different from existing ones on your body.

How Will a Dermatologist Handle It?

If you notice alarming moles, don't hesitate to schedule a skin screening at North Branch Dermatology. Expect a skin biopsy to see if the growth is benign or cancerous. If the results show malignancy, your dermatologist will schedule removal immediately. Depending on the extent of the growth, removal may involve excision, scraping, radiation, cryosurgery (freezing), or Mohs surgery, which involves microscopic review after the removal of thin layers of cancerous tissue.

When you need a professional mole check in Chicago, IL, call Dr. Fahrenbach and Dr. Jaros at North Branch Dermatology. They will handle your situation with professionalism and compassion, whether you have a benign or cancerous growth. To learn more about your options and set an appointment, call us at (773) 763-6000.