Dermatologists Warn Against Removing Moles Without Medical Evaluation to Avoid Delayed Skin Cancer Diagnosis

Many people rush to have new moles, skin tags, or small lesions removed by cosmeticians, viewing them as mere aesthetic nuisances. However, dermatologists caution that removing such skin marks without prior medical examination can delay the diagnosis of skin cancer and reduce treatment success. Dr. Mohammad Sah, a dermatologist with Maccabi Healthcare Services in northern Israel, explains that many patients first seek cosmetic removal, unaware that cosmeticians are not qualified to assess the medical nature of skin lesions.

Dr. Sah emphasizes that even small or seemingly harmless lesions can have medical significance. Therefore, any mole or skin lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist before removal to determine if it is benign or suspicious for malignancy. He warns that visual inspection alone is insufficient, as dangerous growths can be hidden beneath the skin surface. Partial removal or superficial treatments using plasma or electric devices may alter the lesion’s appearance, complicating later medical assessment and preventing pathological examination, which is essential for definitive diagnosis.

If a lesion is found to require removal, Dr. Sah advises that the procedure be conducted in a medical setting by a dermatologist or surgeon, with the tissue sent for pathological analysis. This ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate follow-up care. Changes in size, color, or shape of a mole should prompt immediate consultation with a dermatologist rather than cosmetic removal.

In summary, Dr. Sah stresses that mole removal is not merely cosmetic but a medical procedure that requires professional evaluation to avoid missing early skin cancer signs. Patients are urged to seek dermatological assessment before any removal to ensure safe and effective treatment.