Dr. Milton Moore uses laser technology to remove moles at light speed
For many men and women, the picture-perfect face they want to see when they look in the mirror is tarnished because of the appearance of moles. Clinically named dermatosis papulosa nigra, the unsightly spots are often brown but they come in a wide range of colors, shapes and sizes.
“Each mole has its own growth pattern,” says Dr. Milton Moore, a Houston dermatologist. “At first, moles can be flat and tan, pink, brown or black in color, like a freckle. Over time, they usually enlarge, change slowly, become more raised and darker, especially when exposed to the sun.”
Dr. Moore also says the use of oral contraceptives and certain physical changes during the child-bearing years may make women particularly susceptible to the appearance of moles.
Mole removal is one of the most frequently requested patient procedures at Dr. Moore’s dermatology clinic near the Texas Medical Center. The latest laser technology enables Dr. Moore to literally zap away the growths in as little as 15 to 20 minutes, with patients experiencing virtually no pain or irritation.
“Laser mole removal offers patients a wonderful alternative to traditional, more invasive surgical or chemical removal methods” Dr. Moore says.
After a light numbing cream is applied to the targeted skin for patient comfort, each mole is individually disintegrated by a laser that pulses hundreds of times per second. The rapid pulsing action prevents heat damage to the skin surrounding the mole and minimizes the risk of scarring. After the procedure, most patients go right back to work or other normal activities. Bandages are usually not necessary, and women can wear make-up to camouflage the small, light-colored spots that temporarily remain on the areas where the moles have been removed. The spots usually take just a few days to heal and develop a normal, natural looking color that blends in with the rest of the skin.
“There are no stitches, healing time is faster, there’s very little chance of infection, and the ultimate end result is a clear, smooth complexion that can make you look younger,” Dr. Moore says.
The cost of laser mole removal varies depending on each patient’s clinical diagnosis before treatment starts as well as the size and number of moles being treated. Many medical insurance plans cover the procedure, so check with your provider.
For more information about laser mole removal, call Dr. Milton Moore at 713-741-DERM (3376). Moore Unique Dermatology and Spa is located at 9350 Kirby Drive.
