Introduction
Breast mole removal is a common concern for many individuals in New York City. Whether it's for cosmetic reasons or to address potential health risks, finding a well - reputed doctor is crucial. In this article, we will explore the ranking of well - reputed doctors for breast mole removal in New York City, comparing Class - III A and private doctors. First, let's understand the different types of moles and why removal might be necessary.
Understanding Moles
What are Moles?
Moles, or nevi, are benign growths that can appear flesh - colored, light brown, blue, or dark brown. They are formed from a clustering of melanocytes, the cells that give rise to pigmentation in the skin. Common moles are oval or round and can appear flat or raised. Moles can appear anywhere on the body, but are commonly found in areas with high sun exposure, such as the arms, legs, back, and face. Most people have between 10 to 40 moles by adulthood.
Types of Moles
- Atypical or Dysplastic Nevus: Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic moles, have unusual features when viewed under a microscope. They can have irregular borders, inconsistent pigmentation, be asymmetrical, or appear bumpy or raised in an irregular way. While they are generally benign, individuals with more than 50 of these moles may be at higher risk for skin cancer.
- Spitz Nevus: Spitz nevus moles are a rare kind of non - cancerous growth that can occur anywhere on the body. They are defined by their domed shape and reddish - brown pigmentation, and may grow quickly and then stop growing for a long time. Many dermatologists recommend surgical removal due to their unusual appearance under the microscope.
- Acquired Nevus: Acquired moles form after birth and are also referred to as “common moles.” They are usually no cause for concern and have benign features such as a round shape, symmetry, smooth borders, homogenous color, and small overall size. These moles are often removed for cosmetic reasons.
- Congenital Nevus: Congenital moles, often called “birthmarks,” form within the first year of a baby's birth. They occur in 1 - 2% of the population and should be monitored for potential signs of melanoma, although they are usually benign. They may be removed for cosmetic reasons.
When to Remove Moles
Doctors use the ABCDE criteria (asymmetrical shape, border, changes in color, diameter, and evolving) to assess if a mole warrants further testing. An unusual mole with irregular borders or color, or an existing mole that has changed in size or shape, may require a skin biopsy to determine if it is cancerous or precancerous. Benign moles like skin tags or seborrheic keratoses may be removed for cosmetic reasons.
Top Doctors for Mole Removal in New York City
List of Reputed Doctors from Healthgrades
| Doctor's Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Hirshel Kahn, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 110 Duane St, New York, NY 10007 |
| Dr. Ariel Ostad, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 897 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Jeffrey Weinberg, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 32 Union Sq E Ste 516, New York, NY 10003 |
| Dr. Adelle Quintana, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 130 W 42nd St Ste 1900, New York, NY 10036 |
| Dr. Alan Greenspan, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 39 Broadway Rm 3005, New York, NY 10006 |
| Dr. Shari Lipner, PhD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 1305 York Avenue 9th floor, New York, NY 10021 |
| Dr. Brendan Camp, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 820 2nd Ave Rm 3a, New York, NY 10017 |
| Dr. Lindsey Bordone, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 51 West 51st street, New York, NY 10019 |
| Dr. Noah Gratch, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 820 2nd Ave Rm 3a, New York, NY 10017 |
| Dr. Man Hong Ma, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 668 Broadway # 670, Bayonne, NJ 07002 |
Other Reputed Doctors
Dr. Julia Tzu at Wall Street Dermatology is also highly regarded. She is one of the most experienced mole removal surgeons in NYC with 10,000 + mole removals performed. She has glowing reviews on Google & Yelp, offers a full range of mole removal procedures (laser, shave, surgical excision), and has strong academic credentials including a Stanford undergrad, an MD from Johns Hopkins, a University of Miami dermatology residency, and clinical fellowships from NYU & University of Pennsylvania (skin surgery & cosmetic dermatology).
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board - certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience. She is consistently identified as one of New York City's best dermatologists by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, and New York Magazine. She provides regular skin checks and mole removal procedures for both skin cancer and cosmetic reasons.
Class - III A vs. Private Doctors
Class - III A Doctors
Class - III A facilities or doctors often have a high level of government - regulated standards. They may be affiliated with large public hospitals or institutions. These doctors usually have access to a large pool of resources, including advanced diagnostic tools and a wide range of treatment options. They may also be involved in research and academic activities, which can contribute to their up - to - date knowledge and expertise. However, due to the large number of patients they handle, the waiting time for appointments may be longer, and the personalized attention may be relatively less compared to private doctors.
Private Doctors
Private doctors, on the other hand, can offer more personalized services. They often focus on building long - term relationships with their patients and can spend more time understanding the patient's concerns and preferences. Private clinics may have a more comfortable and private environment. Some private doctors are known for their high - end cosmetic treatments and the latest techniques. However, the cost of treatment at private clinics may be higher, and the insurance coverage may be more limited compared to Class - III A facilities.
Mole Removal Procedures
Shave Removal
Shave removal involves removing the surface of the mole to the level of the surrounding skin. The site is first cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic. A scalpel or razor blade is used to shave the mole, which is then sent to the laboratory for examination. The benefits include no stitches, quick healing, and generally no scars. However, there is a higher chance of mole recurrence if it has a deeper component.
Surgical Excision
This is a surgical procedure usually reserved for larger and deeper moles. After numbing the area, a scalpel or special surgical scissor is used to remove the entire mole and a margin of surrounding skin. The tissues are sent for testing, and sutures are used to close the site. It takes longer to heal compared to shave removal, but it is more likely to provide a permanent solution.
Electrodesiccation
Electrodesiccation uses an electric current to destroy benign moles or growths like seborrheic keratoses or skin tags. The site will scab, and an ointment is applied during the healing process. This method is not suitable for testing for cancer as the tissue cannot be sent to the laboratory after the procedure.
Liquid Nitrogen
Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze off benign lesions, actinic keratoses, or pre - cancerous growths. The procedure is quick, but there is an increased possibility of scarring, and no skin biopsy is taken during the procedure, so it is not used for suspicious moles.
Aftercare and Recovery
General Aftercare
After mole removal, it is important to keep the area clean. This usually involves applying a layer of bacitracin ointment or aquaphor to the wound and covering it with a bandage. The wound should be cleaned twice a day with hydrogen peroxide or sterile water. Patients should avoid saunas, heat, and sun exposure during the healing process.
Recovery Time
For shave removal and procedures where a biopsy is taken, the site usually heals within ten days. If electrodesiccation or surgical excision is used, it can take two to three weeks to heal fully. The doctor will provide specific aftercare instructions based on the type of mole removal procedure performed.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for mole removal depends on the individual plan. If mole removal is medically necessary, such as for suspicious or atypical moles or skin cancers, it is usually covered by insurance. However, the removal of non - cancerous moles for cosmetic reasons is usually not covered. It is important to contact the insurance provider to confirm coverage.
Choosing the Right Doctor
When choosing a doctor for breast mole removal in New York City, consider the doctor's experience, reputation, and the type of services they offer. Look for doctors who are board - certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons with expertise in mole removal. Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the doctor's patient - care skills. Also, consider the location of the clinic, the cost of treatment, and the insurance coverage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many well - reputed doctors for breast mole removal in New York City. Whether you choose a Class - III A doctor or a private doctor depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the complexity of your case. Understanding the different types of moles, the removal procedures, and the aftercare requirements is essential for a successful mole removal experience. Make sure to do thorough research and consult with multiple doctors before making a decision.
If you're considering breast mole removal in New York City, don't hesitate to reach out to one of the reputed doctors mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards addressing your concerns and achieving the best possible outcome for your skin health. Share this article with others who may be in need of similar information, and continue to explore our website for more in - depth articles on skin care and medical procedures.
