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Moles and Birthmarks New York NY

Nevi, commonly called moles, are clusters of melanocytes (pigment cells in the skin) that are quite common. Most adults have between 10 and 40. Nevi are often categorized as pigmented or non-pigmented and normal or abnormal. Abnormal nevi are more likely to develop into some form of skin cancer. Normal moles, pigmented or non-pigmented, are usually not worthy of attention, unless they appear in a non-convenient location that causes functional or aesthetic concerns.

Some nevi are present from birth and are quite noticeable. Over time, the person can become self-conscious of its appearance and desire removal. In some cases, the nevus can form in a problematic area, restricting movement or affecting a cluster of nerves or an organ. The Vascular Birthmark Center, with offices in New York and Los Angeles, offers nevi removal for patients.

Here are three reasons to consider nevus (mole) removal.

Cancer

The main non-cosmetic reason patients come to us for nevi removal is the risk of cancer. Irregular or abnormal nevi are at a greater risk of turning into various forms of skin cancer. Some of these are quite aggressive and can spread quickly to other areas of the body. Therefore, if any nevus, or mole, appears abnormal, or you notice changes or bleeding from it, you should consult with the specialists at the Vascular Birthmark Center for an evaluation.

Our specialists can examine the nevi and even take a sample, if warranted, for testing. We have varying methods to remove nevi that can minimize the risks of prominent scarring. Smaller nevi present little risk of leaving a scar; larger or deeper nevi may require certain measures to minimize scarring after removal.

Impairment

At times, nevi can form in areas that become a problem for the patient. Large nevi that develop where the arm bends can restrict movement. Forcing excess movement can tear the nevi, causing bleeding and a high risk of infection. Other nevi form around or near nerve clusters, affecting how nearby nerves function. Those nevi that form near bodily organs may require specialized surgery to remove, preventing harm to the body and its vital functions. An example would be a mole that forms on or near an eyelid.

Aesthetics

By far, the most popular reason patients wish to remove nevi is for aesthetic, or cosmetic, reasons. The mole appeared in a prominent place the patient finds embarrassing or uncomfortable. Self-esteem issues or confidence in appearance can be harmed, so they investigate removal options.

The specialists at the Vascular Birthmark Center can explain the different options for removing nevi that are cosmetic concerns during a private consultation. Contact our offices in New York or Los Angeles to schedule an appointment to discuss nevi removal.

Posted on behalf of The Vascular Birthmark Center: Gregory M. Levitin, MD

200 W. 57th St., Suite 1410
New York, NY 10019

Phone: (212) 316-0616

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Our Patient Reviews
The Vascular Birthmark Center: Gregory M. Levitin, MD

4.8 / 5.0

Based on 27 reviews

Abril M.

Dr. Levitin is very knowledgeable, compassionate and professional. Five years ago, I needed to find information about a birth mark that my newborn daughter started to grow a couple days after birth. I was afraid, I did not feel like I got any clear information about it through my insurance; also, they did not offer any course of treatment for it. I started to look for information, the birthmark was growing each day, information was scarce and I just got more scared. Finally, I found a video in Youtube from a grandmother who was very grateful after finding treatment for her grand daughter through The Birthmark Foundation. It was a huge blessing to me and my family. I found Dr. Levitin, I contacted him thinking he probably would not even answer. I was wrong, he kindly answered promptly, got in touch with me and soon he had a plan : ) I went to see him at the Birthmark Center in Los Angeles. He explained everything in a way that it was so clear to understand, no question I made was insignificant and his answers were each very informative. I really never have had an experience with a doctor who explains and speaks in such a way. I left his office knowing that my daughter was in the best hands and the best care. I first thank God for the Birthmark Foundation, a great organization with the highest quality of doctors. Also, a very special thanks to Dr. Levitin for all his help and kindness, for listening to my concerns and answering each and every question. And last, but no least, to the Birthmark Foundation Center in Los Angeles : ) I hope many children can find help/care in this place as I found it for my daughter. Thank you forever.

Ryan E.

I will be telling tales of the good doctors compassion till time comes to an end. Because of Dr Levitin, I have more confidence in my every day life. He was fast, knowledgeable, precise and all with a disarming sense of humor. Two thumbs up!

Carla M.

I wanted to show you how much better Hailey's tongue looks and let you know her speech has already improved so much!!! Her speech teacher is thrilled!!!! Thank you so much for everything you did for her. You are an excellent surgeon with a great bedside manner- we are forever grateful to you!!! We are so appreciative!

Danielle L.

we are forever grateful for Dr. Levitin. My daughter Lena had surgery to remove her hemangioma that was located on her forehead at just 6 month old. she healed beautifully and we couldn't be happier with how minimal her scar is, even almost 4.5 years later. Dr. Levitin is caring, compassionate, and such a great doctor/surgeon overall. He had our daughter's best interest and I knew she was in good hands. I highly recommend him any chance I get!

Chris

My name is Chris and I was recently treated for an AVM on my forehead by Dr. Gregory Levitin of New York (New York Eye and Ear Infirmary). Thankfully, I live within a few hours of NYC. In brief, I would like to say that Dr. Levitin is very capable doctor with a lot of experience with AVMs. He responds quickly to e-mail, texts, and phone calls. He accepts insurance. He takes a "team approach" and will be your "QB" and involve other specialists as necessary. In my particular case they were Dr. Raj Shrivastava (Mt Sinai) and Dr. Raphael A. Ortiz (Lenox Hill) in NY. I recommend contacting Dr Levitin for a consultation if you suspect you have an AVM. All 3 Drs are just good people. When I spoke to them, they treated me like like an equal. I felt like they were advising me as a close friend or family member. Like many that suffer with AVMs I was at first mis-diagnosed. What was thought to be a just a simple cyst turned out to be an AVM. Surgery to remove the cyst made the AVM about 5x bigger. My treatment entailed a few MRIs and CAT scans to determine what was going on and the treatment plan. This was followed by consultation with the 3 Drs mentioned above and finally a 2-day procedure. On day 1 Dr Ortiz embolized the AVM. On day 2 Dr Levitin and Dr Shrivastava removed the AVM from my skull and put some metal mesh there to fill the "hole". It has been 6-months since the surgery and so far I have not had any recurrence. In honor of Vascular Birthmark Awareness Day and to thank these Drs for all they have done for me, I just want to give everyone a solid reference. Finding the right doctor for this type of stuff makes all the difference.

Valle S.

I just discovered this page i have also a birthmark I always experiences bully because of this. I don't know what kind of birthmark is this if it is harmful ? I hope Dr. Levitin notice this message in this way I think he can help me :) :) #DrLevitin

Alicia M.

This year marks the 10th that I contacted VBF for help. Since then I have been under the care of Dr. G Levitin and Dr. R. Ortiz, they are my guardian healing angels! Thanks VBF for not only helping me but also for letting me be a volunteer in the foundation whenever I am needed. A Big Hug to all from MIAMI... Alicia

Alexander G.

Totally positive experience. Dr. Levitin is a great professional. He has diagnosed and treated my nose breathing problem, significantly improving my quality of life. Office staff is very professional. Appointments always kept on time. Strongly recommend.