Does removing a (non-cancerous) mole reduce the chances of skin cancer developing in that spot?

Question

I used to go tanning in tanning beds and a large, asymmetrical mole appeared out of nowhere and grew within a short period of time. I got it checked recently by a dermatologist but she just looked at it and determined it to be non-cancerous. I don't like the way it looks and want to get it removed. If I get it removed will it also lessen the chance of skin cancer ever forming in that spot? Or does it matter if some of the mole is accidentally left over?

Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD · Answer

One should know if the spot is actually a mole or another pigmented lesion. For example, seborrheic keratoses develop very quickly and can be pigmented mimicking moles. I am unsure what the exact situation is in your case. I hope your dermatologist at least used a magnifying lens - a dermatoscope to check it. Removing the benign mole may not be necessary, but if there is any chance it can be atypical it should be removed. Sometimes early atypical moles are hard to diagnose, so I would advise seeking another opinion if you are worried. And you are correct, the history of tanning bed use is definitely worrisome.

Does removing a (non-cancerous) mole reduce the chances of skin cancer developing in that spot?

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