Concerns About Moles on the Lips: When to Seek Treatment?

Q: Concerns About Moles on the Lips: When to Seek Treatment?

Hello： Based solely on a textual description, it is not possible to accurately diagnose a skin condition. <br>If you are concerned about changes in a mole on your skin, it is advisable to visit a major hospital's dermatology or plastic surgery department for a biopsy and patholog

The issue of moles?

Hello Doctor, about a year ago, I noticed a small dark spot on my lip.
At that time, I visited a dermatologist who diagnosed it as a mole and treated it with liquid nitrogen.
However, instead of disappearing, the mole has grown larger.
The doctor mentioned it was a benign mole and advised me to monitor it, so I have been observing any changes.
Recently, I noticed that the color of the mole seems to have darkened, particularly at the edges, which has made me worried about potential negative changes.
Should I address this situation immediately? I’ve heard from friends that during the summer, it can take a while to get an appointment for treatment (laser) or surgery at hospitals or clinics.
If I wait more than a week or two, could it worsen? In this case, should I consider laser removal of the mole, or should I opt for surgical excision for biopsy? Before consulting you, I read online that moles on the lips can be prone to malignant changes; is this true? (I’m very concerned.) Also, can surgical procedures completely eliminate the mole? I’ve seen information suggesting that if laser treatment is not thorough, the mole may reappear.
If surgery does not completely excise the mole, could it also grow back? I feel like there are one or two faint moles or spots on the edges of my lips as well.
If they are moles, how should I handle them? Will they also darken? There is so much information online about medical issues, and I’m worried about developing PJ syndrome.
Is this a hereditary condition, and if there is no family history, is it unlikely to occur? Thank you again for your response, Doctor.
(I’m really very worried.)

Yan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/04

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology

Hello: Based solely on a textual description, it is not possible to accurately diagnose a skin condition.
If you are concerned about changes in a mole on your skin, it is advisable to visit a major hospital's dermatology or plastic surgery department for a biopsy and pathological examination.
For concerns related to PJ syndrome, it is recommended to consult a nearby dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2020/07/04

More Info

When it comes to concerns about moles on the lips, particularly those that have changed in appearance, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution and awareness. Based on your description, it seems that you have a mole that has not only grown larger but has also changed color, particularly at the edges. These changes can be significant and warrant further evaluation.

Firstly, it is important to understand that moles, or nevi, can be benign, but any changes in size, shape, color, or texture can indicate a potential problem. The fact that your mole has darkened and grown larger is concerning, especially since you have already had it treated with liquid nitrogen, which typically aims to remove superficial lesions. If the mole has persisted and even grown after this treatment, it is advisable to seek further medical attention.

In terms of treatment options, you have mentioned both laser treatment and surgical excision. Each method has its pros and cons. Laser treatment can be effective for superficial lesions and may result in less scarring; however, it is not always guaranteed to remove the mole entirely. If the mole is deeper or has atypical features, surgical excision may be the more appropriate option. This method allows for complete removal of the mole and provides a sample for histopathological examination to rule out any malignancy.

Regarding your concerns about the potential for the mole to recur, it is true that if a mole is not completely excised, there is a chance it could grow back. This is why thorough evaluation and possibly a biopsy are essential. If the mole is determined to be benign after removal, you can have peace of mind. However, if there are any atypical features, further monitoring or treatment may be necessary.

You also raised a valid point about the potential for melanoma, especially in areas like the lips where skin is more sensitive. While the risk of melanoma in moles on the lips is generally low, it is not impossible. The presence of multiple moles or dysplastic nevi can increase the risk, and while genetics play a role, having no family history does not completely eliminate the risk.

If you notice any new moles or changes in existing ones, it is essential to consult a dermatologist promptly. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend a dermatoscopic evaluation, which allows for a more detailed view of the mole's characteristics. If you are experiencing delays in getting an appointment, consider reaching out to different clinics or dermatologists, as timely intervention is crucial.

In summary, given the changes you have observed in your mole, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a dermatologist. Surgical excision may be the best option for definitive diagnosis and treatment. Monitor any new changes in your skin, and do not hesitate to seek medical advice if you have concerns. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and addressing these issues early can lead to better outcomes.

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