Birthmarks and moles are common skin growths. They are actually benign growths, so-called nevus cells. They contain the skin pigment melanin and turn dark in some areas of the skin and then become the brown spots we know as birthmarks or moles. There is no uniform definition for these spots. Nevus is the umbrella term for skin-colored to dark brown spots of various sizes. Birthmarks are present from birth. Doctors talk about a mole in acquired brown skin areas, through hormone fluctuations or sunbathing. Basically, a decision is made between congenital (birthmark) and acquired (mole, pigment spot).
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Usually harmless
Moles and moles are usually harmless. In rare cases, however, so-called black skin cancer or a preliminary stage thereof can develop from the nevus cells. They become noticeable through enlargement, surface changes, discoloration, itching, pain or, in rare cases, bleeding. Light-skinned people should see a dermatologist regularly. The health insurance company regularly takes over such an examination. However, the likelihood of birthmarks and moles becoming malignant is rather low.
Removal Methods
If moles aren’t dangerous, they don’t need to be removed, that really only happens when skin cancer is suspected. Removal is often cosmetic. Whereby one must always speak between a reasonable distance and a distance at which the scar is larger in the end than the mole was before. In this case, cosmetic intervention is not recommended. There are two different methods to remove a mole or mole:
- Excision: This is done when there is a suspicion of skin cancer, since the skin cells are then checked in a histological examination. The skin is locally anesthetized beforehand, after about a week the stitches are removed, leaving a small scar.
- The laser: Birthmarks or moles are often lasered during cosmetic removal. No samples can be taken for a histological diagnosis. Scars can also occur with lasers, but there is no real wound afterwards. Wound healing disorders can occur after either of the two removal methods.
Health insurance usually pays
The health insurance usually only pays for a removal if there is a suspicion of skin cancer or if the doctor diagnoses that skin cancer can develop in the affected area. Even in the case of physical influences such as a large birthmark on the face, the insurance company usually agrees to cover the costs of the removal. A mole or mole should never be removed yourself. Depending on the size of the operation, sports and physical activities are taboo after the operation. Even the application of creams to the wound only wanted to be done in consultation with the treating doctor. If larger scars develop, they can be lasered away by a family doctor. Camouflage Make Up is suitable for effectively covering up scars or moles.
