Moles

Mole Removal & Evaluation in Washington, DC

Board-Certified Dermatologist | 34+ Years Experience

Moles are common skin growths that can vary in size, shape, color, and appearance. While most moles are harmless, a new or changing mole may need evaluation by a dermatologist.

At Yolanda C. Holmes, M.D., P.C., Dr. Holmes provides evaluation and treatment of moles and other skin growths in Washington, DC. As a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience, Dr. Holmes evaluates each mole based on its appearance, location, changes over time, and the patient's individual concerns.

Or call us: 202-737-6800

What Is a Mole?

A mole is a common skin growth that can vary in size, shape, color, and appearance. Moles can be flat or raised and may range in color from pink and tan to brown or black.

Most moles develop during childhood and early adulthood, but new moles can also appear later in life. While most moles are harmless, changes in a mole may need evaluation.

When Should a Mole Be Evaluated?

Consider having a mole evaluated if it displays any of the following changes:

  • Newly appeared
  • Changing in size
  • Changing in shape
  • Changing in color
  • Bleeding
  • Crusting
  • Itching or pain
  • Looks noticeably different from your other moles

If you notice any of these changes, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine whether further assessment is needed.

ABCDE Warning Signs for Moles

Dermatologists often use the ABCDE characteristics to help identify moles that may need further evaluation:

  • A — Asymmetry: One half does not look like the other.
  • B — Border: The edges are irregular, uneven, or poorly defined.
  • C — Color: The mole has multiple colors or an uneven distribution of color.
  • D — Diameter: The mole is larger than expected, although concerning moles can be smaller.
  • E — Evolving: The mole is changing in appearance, size, shape, or symptoms.

Learn more about Skin Cancer Screening & Diagnosis →

Mole Removal Options

Depending on the type, size, location, and characteristics of a mole, removal may be recommended for medical or cosmetic reasons.

Dr. Holmes can determine whether removal is appropriate and discuss the available approach during your evaluation.

Cosmetic vs. Medical Mole Removal

Patients may seek mole removal for different reasons:

  • Medical Evaluation: A mole appears suspicious or has changed in appearance, size, shape, or symptoms.
  • Cosmetic Removal: A benign mole is bothersome because of its appearance, location, or irritation from clothing or shaving.

Dr. Holmes will evaluate the mole and discuss the reason for removal, expected results, and what to expect during the procedure.

Moles and Skin of Color

Moles can occur in every skin tone. Changes in a mole should be evaluated based on the characteristics of the lesion rather than skin color alone.

Learn more about Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →

What Happens During a Mole Evaluation?

During a mole evaluation, Dr. Holmes examines the lesion and determines whether monitoring, removal, or additional evaluation is appropriate.

If a mole appears suspicious, Dr. Holmes may recommend a biopsy to determine whether it is benign or requires further treatment.

When to See a Dermatologist for a Mole

See a dermatologist if a mole:

  • Changes in size, shape, or color
  • Develops irregular borders
  • Begins bleeding or crusting
  • Becomes painful or persistently itchy
  • Looks noticeably different from your other moles
  • Is new and concerning

You don't need to determine whether a mole is cancerous on your own. A dermatologist can evaluate the area and determine whether further assessment is needed.

Learn more about Skin Cancer Screening & Diagnosis →

Frequently Asked Questions About Moles

Click on a question to reveal the answer:

Q: Are all moles harmless?
A: No. While most moles are harmless, some may develop into skin cancer. Any new or changing mole should be evaluated by a dermatologist to determine whether it is benign or requires further assessment.
Q: When should I worry about a mole?
A: You should have a mole evaluated if it is new, changing in size, shape, or color, bleeding, crusting, itching, painful, or looks different from your other moles.
Q: Can a dermatologist remove a mole?
A: Yes. A dermatologist can remove a mole for medical or cosmetic reasons. Dr. Holmes can evaluate your mole and discuss whether removal is appropriate and what to expect during the procedure.
Q: Is mole removal painful?
A: Mole removal is typically performed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Some patients may experience mild soreness or discomfort after the area heals.
Q: Can a mole grow back after removal?
A: In some cases, a mole may regrow if some cells remain after removal. Dr. Holmes will discuss the likelihood of recurrence based on the type of mole and removal method used.
Q: Does removing a mole prevent skin cancer?
A: Removing a mole that is benign or potentially precancerous can help address that specific lesion, but it does not prevent the development of other moles or skin cancers. Regular skin monitoring and dermatologic evaluations remain important.
Q: Should I have a changing mole checked?
A: Yes. Any mole that is changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Early evaluation can help determine whether the mole is benign or requires further assessment.
Q: How much does mole removal cost in Washington, DC?
A: Costs vary depending on the type, size, and location of the mole and the reason for removal. During your consultation, the practice can discuss your treatment options and associated costs. Many medically necessary mole removals may be covered by insurance.

Why Choose Dr. Holmes for Mole Removal & Evaluation

Board-Certified Dermatologist

with 34+ years experience

Comprehensive Evaluation

for moles and skin growths

Medical & Cosmetic Removal

based on your individual needs

Experience with All Skin Types

including patients with skin of color

Convenient Location

1737 20th Street NW, Washington, DC

Recognized

2025 Best Dermatologist in Dupont Circle

Meet Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes

Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with 34+ years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.

She provides individualized evaluation of moles, skin growths, and other skin concerns and helps patients determine when monitoring, removal, or additional evaluation may be appropriate.

Learn more about Dr. Holmes →

Concerned About a Mole?

If you have a mole that is new, changing, bleeding, itching, or simply concerning you, a dermatology evaluation can help determine whether further assessment is needed.

Call: 202-737-6800

Schedule a Mole Evaluation in Washington, DC

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