Do you want to remove a birthmark from your body? (Mole Removal) Let's find out exactly what this is!

It's very common to have birthmarks in different places on our bodies. Some are present when we are born, and some appear later. Most of the time, we don't think much about them. But have you ever thought like this? "Hmm... this mole on my arm didn't look that big before," "Has this mole changed color?" or "Oh, this mole on my face makes my face look unattractive." If you feel the same way, this article will be very important for you. Today, we will talk about mole removal.

Let's first see, what is this birthmark?

Simply put, a birthmark is a small growth that forms when the cells responsible for our skin color (melanin cells) come together in one place. Medically, we also call this a ``nevus''. These can be the same color as your skin, or they can be pink, brown, or black. Birthmarks are usually darker in people with darker skin or hair. Some are flat against the skin, while others are slightly raised.

It is normal for an adult to have between 10 and 40 birthmarks. Some of them will gradually grow larger over time, while others may fade and disappear. 99% of these birthmarks are harmless and not a problem.

However, if you have any concerns about the appearance of your birthmark, if it changes color or shape, if it itches, or if it bleeds, you should definitely see a doctor and talk about it.

So, why do we remove a birthmark?

There are two main reasons to remove a birthmark.

1. For health reasons (due to suspected cancer): Sometimes a mole can be skin cancer. Or it can be precancerous. If your doctor examines the mole and suspects it is suspicious, he or she will recommend removing it and sending it for a biopsy. This will determine whether it contains cancerous cells (malignant) or benign (benign).

2. Cosmetic Reasons: Sometimes you may not be happy with the location of a birthmark. For example, if it is on a visible area like the face or neck, or if it is in a place where it gets caught on clothes or when shaving, it can be a nuisance. Even then, if you prefer, you can have it safely removed by a doctor.

What is the difference between a normal spot and a suspicious spot?

This is a question that many people have. Let's see what symptoms you should pay attention to.

If you have a mole like this, don't panic. Not all moles are cancerous. However, it's best to see a dermatologist for a checkup.

What happens before a birthmark is removed?

When you go to see the doctor, he will first examine your skin carefully. Sometimes you can take photos of your spots and keep them so you can see if there is any change later.

Then, a special device called a dermoscope is used to magnify the mole. This is like a magnifying glass. It allows you to see even the inside of the mole and decide whether it needs to be removed, and if so, by what method.

If you decide to remove the mole, the doctor will first clean the area thoroughly. Then they will inject an anesthetic into the area. This will ensure that you do not feel any pain when the mole is removed.

How do doctors remove birthmarks?

There are two main methods. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate method depending on the nature of your mole.

1. Surgical Excision

This is the most common method. After numbing medication is given, the doctor uses a small surgical blade (scalpel) to cut the skin around the mole and remove the mole completely. If cancer is suspected, a small piece of healthy skin around the mole is also removed. This is done to make sure that all of the suspicious cells are removed. The wound is then closed with stitches . The removed mole is sent to a laboratory for a biopsy.

2. Shave Excision

This method is used for some spots that have risen above the skin. What is done here is to scrape the spot off at the skin level with a special blade. Usually, stitches are not needed in this case. The area is lightly cauterized to stop the bleeding. This method also leaves less scarring. However, this method is not suitable for deep spots. Also, the chance of the spot coming back after being removed with this method is slightly higher than with other methods.

Aren't other methods like laser better?

Some people remove birthmarks with methods like lasers and liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy). However, dermatologists generally do not recommend these methods. The main reason is that since these methods destroy the mole, there is no sample left for biopsy. Therefore, there is no way to find out whether it is cancerous or not.

What should you do after removing the stain? (Aftercare)

This is also very important. If you want the wound to heal quickly and reduce the risk of scarring, you need to do these things correctly.

• The doctor will apply something like petroleum jelly (e.g. Vaseline®) to the wound and cover it with a bandage.
• You need to keep the area moist (with jelly) for a few days.
• As the doctor says, clean the wound every day and apply a new bandage.
• Once the wound has completely healed, if the area is exposed to the sun, be sure to apply sunscreen to protect it from the sun. This can help prevent the scar from darkening.

It usually takes about two to three weeks for the wound to heal. During this time, you can return to your normal activities, but you may experience some pain.

What are the risks of this?

This is very safe when performed by a qualified doctor, but like any surgery, there are some minor risks.

• Bleeding: Sometimes the bleeding from the wound can continue unabated.
• Scars: A small scar is always left behind, but when done by a skilled doctor, it is often not very noticeable.
• Infection: If the wound is not kept clean, germs can enter and fester.
• Nerve damage: Very rarely, a small nerve in the area may be damaged.
• Recurrence of the mole: Sometimes, if a small part of the mole remains, it can come back.

Is it dangerous to remove birthmarks at home?

Why is that? There are several reasons:

• It could be cancer: If the mole you're removing is cancerous, if you don't remove it properly, cancer cells can remain in the body and spread (metastasize). If a doctor had removed it, they would have sent it for a biopsy to find out for sure.
• The scar won't go away completely: You may not be able to remove the full depth of the scar. Then it will come back.
• Large scars can be left behind: Doctors use clean, delicate instruments. Home remedies are much more likely to leave ugly, large scars.
• Serious infections can occur: If you use unclean equipment, the wound can fester and become seriously infected, requiring antibiotics and possibly hospitalization.

So, if you care about your appearance and your health, never do this at home. A dermatologist will do this safely, cleanly, and with minimal scarring.

Birthmarks, birthmark removal, mole removal sinhala, skin diseases, skin cancer, skin cancer sinhala, biopsy