Introduction
Areola pigmented nevi are a common concern for many individuals in New York City. Whether for cosmetic reasons or due to potential health risks, finding the right doctor for their removal is crucial. In this article, we'll explore the top 5 doctors in New York City who are highly skilled in removing areola pigmented nevi. But first, let's understand what areola pigmented nevi are and why their removal might be necessary.
Understanding Areola Pigmented Nevi
Areola pigmented nevi are moles that appear on the areola, the darker area surrounding the nipple. Moles, or nevi, are benign growths formed from a clustering of melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation. These moles can vary in size, shape, color, and appearance. While most areola pigmented nevi are harmless, some may need to be removed for several reasons.
- Appearance: Some people may find the presence of moles on the areola to be aesthetically unpleasing, affecting their self - confidence.
- Health Risks: Certain moles, especially those that show signs of asymmetry, irregular borders, changes in color, large diameter, or evolving appearance (ABCDE criteria), may be at a higher risk of being precancerous or cancerous. Removing such moles can help prevent potential skin cancer.
- Irritation: Moles on the areola can sometimes cause irritation, especially if they rub against clothing or during physical activities.
Mole Removal Procedures
There are several methods available for mole removal, and the choice of procedure depends on various factors such as the size, location, and type of the mole. Here are the common methods:
| Procedure | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shave Removal | The surface of the mole is shaved to the level of the surrounding skin. The site is cleaned, numbed with a local anesthetic, and then shaved with a scalpel or razor blade. The mole is sent to the laboratory for examination. Bacitracin ointment or aquaphor and a band - aid are applied to the treated area. | No stitches, quick healing, usually no scars | May not remove the entire mole, some pigmentation may remain |
| Surgical Excision | A scalpel or special surgical scissor is used to remove the entire mole and a margin of surrounding skin. The tissues are sent to a laboratory for testing. Sutures are used to close the treatment site. In some cases, the area may be cauterized. | Removes the entire mole, suitable for large or deep moles | Longer healing time, higher risk of scarring |
| Electrodesiccation | An electric current is used to destroy the lesion with cautery or heat. The site will scab, and bacitracin ointment or aquaphor is applied during the healing process. | Efficient for benign moles or growths | Cannot send tissue for testing after the procedure, only for benign lesions |
| Liquid Nitrogen | Liquid nitrogen is applied to the mole to freeze it off. The treated area may blister or scab within a few days. | Quick procedure | No skin biopsy taken, increased possibility of scarring, mainly for benign growths |
Top 5 Doctors for Areola Pigmented Nevi Removal in New York City
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Dr. Michele Green
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board - certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience. She has been consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, and New York Magazine. Dr. Green offers regular skin checks to her patients to detect any new or changing moles. She uses the ABCDE criteria to assess moles and can determine the best removal method. She has expertise in both medical and cosmetic mole removal procedures and is an active member of the Skin Cancer Foundation Society, regularly donating her time for skin cancer screenings.
Location: Private office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side
Contact: Information can be found on her official website
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Dr. Julia Tzu
Dr. Julia Tzu at Wall Street Dermatology is one of the most experienced mole removal surgeons in NYC, having performed 10,000 + mole removals. She has glowing reviews on Google & Yelp and offers a full range of mole removal procedures, including laser, shave, and surgical excision. Dr. Tzu always seeks to find the least invasive option to provide the best cosmetic outcome. With her academic credentials and clinical experience, she is well - equipped to handle areola pigmented nevi removal.
Location: Wall Street Dermatology in NYC
Contact: Call (212) 931 - 0538 or book online
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Dr. David Cangello
Dr. David Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers cosmetic mole removal procedures at his New York City practice. He uses his surgical expertise to remove moles with minimal scarring. Dr. Cangello has experience in both shave and excision mole removal techniques and can provide personalized treatment based on the size and location of the areola pigmented nevi. His approach focuses on achieving smooth, even skin after the removal.
Location: New York City practice
Contact: Contact for a consultation appointment on his official website
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Dr. Aviva Preminger
Dr. Aviva Preminger is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers cosmetic mole removal at her practice on the Upper East Side in NYC. She can recommend various treatments for mole removal depending on the size and location of the mole. For smaller moles, she may suggest laser treatments or freezing, while larger moles may require shaving or surgical excision. Dr. Preminger's goal is to carefully eliminate the mole without leaving behind a noticeable scar.
Location: Office of Aviva Preminger, M.D. on the Upper East Side in NYC
Contact: Call to schedule an informative cosmetic mole removal consultation
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Dr. Lesley Rabach
At LM Medical NYC, Dr. Lesley Rabach is a board - certified facial plastic surgeon who can safely and effectively provide mole or nevus removal on the face or neck (including the areola area) to ensure minimal scarring. She performs cosmetic mole removal as an outpatient procedure, using her expertise to minimize skin damage and scar tissue. With the clinic having a board - certified dermatologist on staff as well, patients can get comprehensive care for mole concerns.
Location: LM Medical NYC clinics in Greenwich Village and the Upper East Side
Contact: Contact the clinic to schedule a mole removal consultation
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor
When selecting a doctor for areola pigmented nevi removal, several factors should be taken into account:
- Experience: Look for a doctor with extensive experience in mole removal, especially in the areola area. Experience often translates to better outcomes and a lower risk of complications.
- Credentials: Ensure that the doctor is board - certified in their relevant specialty, such as dermatology or plastic surgery. Board certification indicates that the doctor has met certain standards of education, training, and competence.
- Reputation: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the doctor's reputation. Positive reviews can give you confidence in the doctor's skills and patient care.
- Treatment Options: A good doctor should offer a variety of treatment options and be able to recommend the most suitable one for your specific case.
- Communication: The doctor should be able to communicate effectively with you, answer all your questions, and address your concerns. A clear understanding of the procedure and its potential outcomes is essential.
Aftercare and Recovery
After mole removal, proper aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery and to minimize the risk of complications such as infection and scarring. Here are some general aftercare guidelines:
- Keep the Area Clean: Clean the wound twice a day with hydrogen peroxide or sterile water and apply a layer of bacitracin ointment or aquaphor. Cover the area with a bandage.
- Avoid Irritation: Avoid saunas, heat, and sun exposure. Also, avoid tight - fitting clothing that may rub against the treated area.
- Follow - up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow - up appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will monitor the healing process and check for any signs of complications.
- Watch for Signs of Infection: Symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge from the wound may indicate an infection. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of areola pigmented nevi removal can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the mole, the type of procedure used, and the doctor's fees. At Wall Street Dermatology, for example, the mole removal cost in NYC is typically $850 to $3000 per treatment session of each mole removed. Insurance coverage also depends on your individual plan. If mole removal is medically necessary, such as in the case of 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 your insurance provider to determine your coverage.
Conclusion
Areola pigmented nevi removal is a procedure that should be performed by a qualified and experienced doctor. The top 5 doctors in New York City mentioned in this article have the skills, experience, and reputation to provide high - quality mole removal services. When considering mole removal, take the time to research and choose the doctor who best suits your needs. Remember to follow all aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. If you have any concerns about areola pigmented nevi or mole removal, don't hesitate to consult with one of these experts.
Call to Action: If you're considering areola pigmented nevi removal, reach out to one of the top 5 doctors in New York City mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation to discuss your options and take the first step towards achieving the results you desire. Share this article with others who may be interested in mole removal information.
