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woman showing her birthmarks on neck skin

Regarding our skin, we must pay attention to any changes or irregularities. One common issue that many people face is the presence of nevi or moles. While most moles are harmless and don’t require any treatment, there are certain cases where nevi removal may be necessary. The Specialists at the Vascular Birthmark Center can provide more information about moles and when you should have them removed.

Moles 101

It’s essential to understand what nevi are and how they form. Nevi or moles are a type of skin lesion that can appear anywhere on the body. They are typically brown or black and can be raised or flat. Moles are caused by the clustering of pigment cells (melanocytes) in the skin, and they can be present at birth or develop over time. Most people have between 10-40 moles on their body, and while they are usually harmless, they can sometimes be a sign of skin cancer.

Reasons for Nevi Removal

There are several reasons why you might want to have a mole removed.

  1. If a mole changes in size, shape or color, it could be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. If you notice any changes in your moles, seeing a specialist at the Vascular Birthmark Center is essential.
  2. It may be worth removing if a mole is causing irritation or discomfort. For example, if a mole is located in an area that rubs against clothing or jewelry, it can become irritated and painful.
  3. Removal may be worth considering if a mole is located in a prominent area affecting your self-confidence. Many people choose to have moles removed for cosmetic reasons, especially if they are large or found on the face. However, it’s important to note that removing a mole for cosmetic reasons is considered an elective procedure and may not be covered by insurance.

Methods for Nevi Removal

Several methods can be used to remove moles, including excision, shave, and laser removal. The technique used will depend on the size and location of the mole, as well as the reason for removal. Excision involves cutting out the mole and stitching up the surrounding skin. Shave removal consists of using a scalpel to shave off the mole, while laser removal uses a laser to destroy the pigment cells in the mole.

After nevi removal, taking care of the wound is essential to prevent infection and scarring. Your Vascular Birthmark Center specialist will provide specific instructions on how to care for the area, but generally, you will need to keep the wound clean and covered until it has healed completely.

You might consider nevi removal for several reasons, including changes in the mole, discomfort or irritation and cosmetic reasons. If you decide to remove a mole, it’s vital to have it evaluated by a specialist and follow their aftercare instructions. Always keep an eye on your skin and get any suspicious moles checked out by a medical professional.

Contact the Vascular Birthmark Center today if you are concerned about a suspicious mole or want 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.