Understanding Moles – Types, Causes & When to Seek Advice
Understanding Moles – Types, Causes & When to Seek Advice
Moles are common skin growths that most people will develop at some point in their life. While they’re usually harmless, some moles can change over time — and in rare cases, may be a sign of skin cancer. At Victoria House Clinic in Sutton Coldfield, we help clients understand their skin, monitor changes, and offer expert advice on whether further treatment or removal is needed.
What Is a Mole?
A mole (medical name: melanocytic naevus) is a cluster of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) that appear on the skin’s surface. Moles vary in shape, size, colour, and texture, and can appear anywhere on the body.
Most moles develop during childhood and early adulthood, but new ones can also form later in life.
Types of Moles
Common moles-Round or oval, flat or slightly raised, usually light to dark brown
Atypical (dysplastic) moles - Irregular in shape or colour, may be larger than normal moles
Congenital moles -Present from birth, may increase slightly in size as you grow
Compound moles - Raised and pigmented, found deeper in the skin
Intradermal moles - Flesh-coloured, dome-shaped, and often hair-bearing
Halo moles A mole surrounded by a white ring where the skin has lost pigment
Most moles are completely harmless — but if they look or feel different to others on your skin, it’s best to get them checked.
Can Moles Be Cancerous?
The vast majority of moles are benign (non-cancerous). However, a changing or unusual mole can occasionally be a sign of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.
We advise following the ABCDE rule when checking your moles:
A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or jagged edges
C – Colour: More than one colour or uneven colour
D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
E – Evolving: Changes in shape, colour, size, or symptoms like itching or bleeding
If you notice any of these changes, or if a mole feels “different”, book a mole check with a medical professional as soon as possible.
When to Have a Mole Checked
We recommend having a mole professionally assessed if:
✅ It’s changed in size, shape, or colour
✅ It itches, bleeds, or becomes crusty
✅ It’s new and looks unusual
✅ It’s located in an area of frequent irritation (e.g., waistband, bra line, shaving area)
✅ You simply want peace of mind
What Happens During a Mole Check?
At Victoria House Clinic, our Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr George Filobbos offers comprehensive mole checks. During your appointment, he will:
Examine your mole(s) using clinical examination
Identify if any mole needs further assessment or removal
Advise on next steps, including whether histology (lab testing) is recommended
We’ll always give you clear, honest advice — without pressure or upselling.
When to Consider Mole Removal
Not all moles need to be removed, but you might consider removal if:
A mole causes irritation or discomfort
You’ve been advised to remove it for medical reasons
You want it removed for cosmetic purposes
It’s in a high-friction or visible area
We offer private mole removal in Sutton Coldfield with surgical excision and optional histology.
