Q: I have a mole on my face that has started to bother me, and I’m wondering if I should just get it removed? What are my options?

If a mole has changed recently, become asymmetric, darkened, enlarged, or frequently crusts/bleeds then one should be suspicious of skin cancer and have the “mole” examined by a dermatologist. However, in most cases, moles are benign and may be removed at any time. We prefer to “shave” a mole as a first-line treatment instead of making a full thickness incision. Although shaving has a greater chance of recurrence, it usually works out best cosmetically. If it comes back, we can always shave it again.