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dermatologist looks at the mark on the patients back

Moles, also called nevi, are a common skin condition that can occur at any time in a person’s life. While some people are born with moles, others may develop them later in life. But can moles appear later in life? The answer is yes. In fact, it is quite common for moles to develop during adulthood.

The specialists at The Vascular Birthmark Center, located in New York and Los Angeles, are some of the foremost authorities in the world on all types of birthmarks, including moles. Learn more about moles and when you should be concerned about them.

What Are Moles?

Moles are small, dark spots on the skin that are usually harmless. They are caused by the growth of melanocytes, which are cells that produce pigment in the skin. Most people have at least a few moles on their body, which can vary in size and shape. Some moles may be raised and bumpy, while others may be flat and smooth.

Why Do Moles Appear Later in Life?

There are several reasons why moles may appear later in life. One common cause is exposure to the sun. Sun exposure can cause new moles to grow or enlarge existing moles. Other factors that can contribute to the development of moles include genetics, hormonal changes and certain medical conditions.

When Should You Be Concerned About Moles?

While most moles are harmless, some may indicate skin cancer. It is important to monitor your moles and watch for any changes. If a mole changes in size, shape or color, or if it becomes itchy, painful or bleeds, you should see a dermatologist or birthmark care specialist. These could be signs of melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer that can be deadly if not treated early.

Use the ABCDE method for checking any moles you notice on your skin:

  • A is for asymmetrical shape. One half is unlike the other half.
  • B is for the border. Look for moles with irregular, notched or scalloped borders.
  • C is for color. Look for growths that have changed color, have many colors or have uneven color.
  • D is for diameter. Look for new growth in a mole larger than 1/4 inch.
  • E is for evolving. Watch for moles that change in size, shape, color or height.

How Can You Prevent Moles?

While it is not always possible to prevent the development of moles, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. One of the most important things you can do is to protect your skin from the sun. This means wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30, seeking shade during peak sun hours and wearing protective clothing like hats and long sleeves.

Professional Nevus Removal

Moles are a common skin condition that can appear anytime in a person’s life. While most moles are harmless, monitoring them and watching for any changes is important. If you have concerns about a mole, contact The Vascular Birthmark Center for more information or to schedule an exam and consultation.

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.