Moles (nevi) are extremely common — most adults have 10–40. The majority are benign, but some require removal for medical or cosmetic reasons. At Belaray Dermatology (Hicksville and Stony Brook, Long Island), our board-certified dermatologists evaluate, biopsy, and remove moles with precision — and send all specimens to pathology to confirm what they are.
When Is Mole Removal Recommended?
- Atypical features (ABCDE) — Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving
- Rapidly changing moles — any mole that is growing, darkening, or changing shape
- Symptomatic moles — bleeding, itching, crusting, or ulceration
- High-risk patients — personal or family history of melanoma, many atypical moles, immunosuppression
- Cosmetically bothersome moles — raised moles in irritated or cosmetically sensitive locations
How Mole Removal Works
Shave Biopsy / Shave Excision
For raised or pedunculated moles, a blade shaves the lesion flush with surrounding skin. The wound heals as a flat scar. Tissue is always sent to pathology.
Punch Biopsy
A circular blade (2–4mm) removes a full-thickness skin sample for pathologic evaluation. Used when the full depth of the lesion needs to be assessed.
Excisional Biopsy
The mole is cut out with a margin of surrounding normal skin and the wound is closed with sutures. Used when melanoma is suspected or when complete removal is needed to clear atypical pathology.
Wide Local Excision
If pathology returns as melanoma or severely atypical, a wider excision is performed. Belaray has three Mohs surgeons on staff and Dr. Rachel Ellis for complex facial reconstruction when needed.
What to Expect at Your Visit
- Full skin examination — all concerning lesions evaluated
- Dermoscopy — magnified evaluation of suspicious moles
- Decision to biopsy based on clinical and dermoscopic features
- Local anesthesia injection — area numbed before any procedure
- Removal — shave, punch, or excision based on lesion type
- Pathology — tissue sent to an independent dermatopathology laboratory
- Results communicated within 1–2 weeks; further management if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Does mole removal hurt?
The procedure is painless after the local anesthesia injection. The injection causes a brief sting. Patients typically feel pressure, not pain, during the procedure. Mild soreness for 1–3 days after is normal.
Is mole removal covered by insurance?
Mole removal for medical indications (atypical appearance, symptoms, changing behavior) is typically covered by insurance. Cosmetic removal of clearly benign moles may not be covered.
What does an atypical mole mean?
Atypical (dysplastic) moles have some but not all features of melanoma. Most are benign, but they require closer monitoring and sometimes re-excision if pathology shows severe atypia.
How long does mole removal take?
The procedure takes 5–15 minutes in the office. Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
Schedule at Belaray Dermatology
Hicksville and Stony Brook, Long Island. Most major insurance accepted.
📅 Book Online 💬 Text (516) 822-7546Medical References
Belaray Dermatology education articles are written by our clinical team and medically reviewed by our physicians. This article draws on guidance from the following authoritative sources:
- American Academy of Dermatology — Skin cancer overview, detection, and self-exams.
- American Cancer Society — Skin cancer facts and statistics.
- Skin Cancer Foundation — Prevention, early detection, and treatment.