Moles

Moles services offered in Great Neck, NY

Moles are very common in children and are usually harmless, but some moles should be monitored over time to make sure they don’t change in concerning ways. At TeleDerm Kidz in Great Neck, New York, Jonathan Trager, MD, evaluates and monitors moles in children to ensure they are healthy and not showing signs of skin cancer or other conditions. If you have concerns about a mole on your child’s skin, call the office today to schedule a visit or book an appointment online.

Moles Q&A

What are moles?

Moles are growths on the skin that occur when pigment-producing cells, called melanocytes, grow in clusters. They can appear anywhere on the body and may be flat or raised, smooth or rough, and range in color from pink to brown or black. Some moles may darken with sun exposure, and others may become slightly raised as a child grows.

Some children are born with moles, while others develop them over time, especially during childhood and adolescence. Most moles are completely harmless, but it’s important to keep an eye on them as your child grows. Teaching older children and teens to be aware of their skin and to tell a parent if they notice a changing mole can also be helpful for early detection.

When should a mole be checked by a doctor?

While most moles are benign, there are certain changes that may indicate a mole should be evaluated. Dr. Trager recommends having a mole checked if you notice:

Changes in size, shape, or color
Irregular or uneven borders
Multiple colors within the mole
Rapid growth
Bleeding, crusting, or itching
A mole that looks very different from others on your child’s body

These signs don’t always mean something is wrong, but they should be evaluated by a specialist to be safe. Regular skin checks are especially important if your child has many moles, very large moles, or a family history of skin cancer.

Can moles be removed?

If a mole looks suspicious, is uncomfortable, or is in a location where it gets irritated, Dr. Trager may recommend removing it. Mole removal is usually a quick, simple procedure that can often be done in the office using local anesthesia to keep your child comfortable.

After removal, the mole may be sent to a lab to make sure it is healthy. Dr. Trager will discuss the best option based on your child’s specific situation and whether removal or monitoring is the better approach.

How are moles monitored over time?

Many moles don’t need to be removed but should be monitored as your child grows. Dr. Trager may recommend periodic skin checks to track any changes in size, shape, or color. In some cases, photos may be taken to help monitor the mole over time and compare any changes.

Monitoring moles over time helps ensure that any concerning changes are caught early and

treated if necessary. If you would like to have your child’s moles evaluated or monitored, call TeleDerm Kidz today to schedule a consultation, or use the online booking tool to find a convenient appointment time.