If you’ve spotted a mole that’s concerning you, whether it’s for cosmetic reasons or because it looks a little suspicious, you might be wondering: should I have a biopsy before removing it?
At Cleaver Medical Group Dermatology in Alpharetta, Canton, Cumming, Dahlonega, Dawsonville, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Lavonia, and Toccoa, Georgia, our expert team is here to help. The short answer: it depends on your reason for removal.
Let’s get started.
If our team thinks your mole looks even slightly unusual, we’ll likely recommend a biopsy before removal. This is because the biopsy helps rule out skin cancer and ensures the safest treatment plan. Signs a mole may need a biopsy include:
A biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample (or sometimes the whole mole) so it can be examined under a microscope.
Not every mole removal needs a biopsy. If your mole is clearly benign (noncancerous) and you’re removing it for cosmetic reasons or because it’s irritating (like catching on clothing or shaving), our team may safely remove it without a biopsy. Some common noncancerous moles that often don’t need a biopsy include:
Still, our team will make the final call after examining your mole.
Even if you’re leaning toward skipping a biopsy, here are a few benefits of saying yes to one:
There is a huge relief that comes from knowing whether your mole is benign or not.
If your mole is cancerous, removing it improperly could leave cancerous cells behind.
We’ll plan the right type of removal based on the biopsy results.
Think of it like double-checking the safety net before a big leap — it’s an extra layer of protection.
Ultimately, the bottom line is that if your mole looks suspicious, you should definitely have a biopsy before mole removal. If your mole looks harmless and you just want it gone, it may not be necessary. However, it’s always worth asking an expert.
At the end of the day, it’s not a decision you have to make alone. If you’re ready for some guidance and peace of mind, contact us online or by phone to set up an appointment at one of our locations today!