Finding Moles Check Near Me: Your Complete Guide to Professional Mole Examinations
Searching for "moles check near me" usually means something has caught your attention—maybe a mole that's changed color, grown larger, or just doesn't look quite right. Or perhaps you've noticed a new spot and want to know if it's normal. These concerns are valid and important, and getting them checked by a qualified dermatologist could be one of the most important health decisions you make.
Most moles are completely harmless, but some can develop into melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. The challenge is that you can't always tell the difference just by looking. That's where professional mole examinations by board-certified dermatologists become essential. A trained expert can distinguish between normal moles, atypical moles that need monitoring, and suspicious lesions requiring immediate action.
At Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine in Chicago's South Loop, board-certified dermatologists Dr. Monica Rani and Dr. Stavonnie Patterson specialize in comprehensive mole examinations and removal. As part of the Northwestern Medicine Physician Network and voted "Best Dermatologist Chicago" four consecutive years, they provide expert mole evaluation with convenient access for patients throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
Quick Answer: When searching for moles check near you, look for board-certified dermatologists offering comprehensive full-body mole examinations, dermoscopy for magnified evaluation of suspicious moles, on-site biopsy and removal services, digital mole mapping for high-risk patients, and experience evaluating moles in all skin tones. In Chicago, Advanced Dermatology's South Loop location provides expert mole checks with easy CTA and interstate access.
Understanding Moles: Normal vs. Concerning
Before we discuss where to get your moles checked, it helps to understand what moles are and when they warrant professional evaluation.
What Are Moles?
Moles (also called nevi) are clusters of pigmented cells that appear as small, dark spots on your skin. Most people have between 10 and 40 moles that develop during childhood and early adulthood.
Normal moles typically: Are round or oval with smooth, even borders. Have uniform color (brown, tan, black, red, pink, or flesh-colored). Measure less than 6mm in diameter (about the size of a pencil eraser). Remain stable in size, shape, and color over time. Appear during childhood or early adulthood.
Why moles form: Genetics play a significant role—you may have similar moles to your parents. Sun exposure triggers mole development, especially during childhood. Hormonal changes during puberty and pregnancy can cause new moles to appear.
The ABCDEs of Melanoma: When Moles Become Dangerous
Dermatologists use the ABCDE rule to identify potentially dangerous moles that could be melanoma. This is what they're looking for during your mole check:
A = Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other half. Draw an imaginary line through the middle—do both sides look the same? Normal moles are typically symmetrical.
B = Border irregularity: The edges are ragged, notched, blurred, or irregular. Normal moles have smooth, even borders.
C = Color variation: The mole has multiple colors or uneven color distribution. Look for different shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue within one mole. Normal moles are usually a single, uniform color.
D = Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser). However, melanomas can be smaller, so don't ignore small moles with other concerning features.
E = Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or texture. Any mole that looks different from your other moles (the "ugly duckling" sign) or that changes over time needs evaluation.
Types of Moles Dermatologists Evaluate
Common moles (nevi): Most people's moles fall into this category. They're typically small, round, and uniform in color. These rarely become cancerous but should still be monitored.
Atypical (dysplastic) nevi: These unusual-looking moles are larger than normal moles, have irregular shapes or borders, and may have varied coloring. While most atypical moles won't become melanoma, people with many dysplastic nevi have a higher risk of developing melanoma somewhere on their body. These require regular professional monitoring.
Congenital nevi: Moles present at birth affect about 1 in 100 people. Large congenital nevi (larger than 20cm) have a higher risk of developing into melanoma and require careful lifelong monitoring.
Spitz nevi: These raised, dome-shaped moles are usually pink, but can be brown or red. They grow quickly and often appear in children and young adults. Because they can resemble melanoma under the microscope, they often require biopsy for proper diagnosis.
Blue nevi: These moles appear blue or blue-black because pigment is located deep in the skin. They're usually benign but should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out melanoma.
When You Need a Professional Mole Check
Many people wait too long to get concerning moles evaluated. Here's when you should schedule a professional examination.
Immediate Red Flags: See a Dermatologist Right Away
Don't wait if you notice any of these warning signs:
A new mole appearing after age 30: While not all new moles in adults are dangerous, any new growth deserves evaluation. Melanoma often appears as a new lesion rather than changing from an existing mole.
A mole that's rapidly changing: Any mole changing in size, shape, or color over weeks or months needs immediate attention. This is especially concerning if the change is noticeable to you or others.
Bleeding, oozing, or crusting: Moles that bleed without injury, ooze clear or colored fluid, or develop persistent crusts require evaluation.
Itching, tenderness, or pain: While not always a sign of cancer, persistent itching or tenderness in a mole should be checked.
The "ugly duckling": A mole that looks dramatically different from all your other moles stands out like an ugly duckling and needs professional evaluation.
Moles in high-risk locations: Pay special attention to moles on your scalp, between toes, under nails, on palms or soles, or in areas difficult to see without mirrors.
Regular Check-Ups: Who Needs Routine Mole Monitoring
Even without concerning changes, certain people should have regular professional mole examinations:
Annual mole checks are recommended for: People with 50+ moles. Anyone with atypical (dysplastic) nevi. Personal history of melanoma or other skin cancers. Family history of melanoma. Fair skin that burns easily. History of severe sunburns or significant sun exposure. Weakened immune system. Previous organ transplant.
Every 1-2 years for: People with 10-50 moles. Light to medium skin tones. Moderate sun exposure history. Some family history of skin cancer (non-melanoma).
Special Considerations for Different Populations
Children and adolescents: While melanoma is rare in children, it does occur. Have your child's moles evaluated if they have large congenital nevi (present at birth), rapidly growing or changing moles, family history of melanoma, or any mole that concerns you as a parent.
Pregnant women: Pregnancy hormones can cause moles to darken or change appearance. While most changes are benign, have any concerning moles evaluated. Let your dermatologist know you're pregnant so they can plan appropriate monitoring.
Darker skin tones: Melanoma in people with darker skin is less common but often more deadly because it's detected later. Dr. Stavonnie Patterson's expertise in skin of color ensures accurate evaluation for all ethnic backgrounds. Pay special attention to moles on palms, soles, under nails, and mucous membranes where melanoma more commonly appears in darker skin.
What Happens During a Professional Mole Check
Understanding the examination process helps you feel prepared and confident about scheduling your appointment.
Pre-Appointment Preparation
Before your mole check appointment:
Come without makeup, nail polish, or heavy hair products that could hide moles on your scalp or under nails. Take photos of any moles that concern you, documenting them from multiple angles if possible. Note when you first noticed concerning moles and what changes you've observed. Make a list of questions you want to ask your dermatologist. Wear comfortable clothing that's easy to remove, as mole checks often include full-body examination.
What to bring: List of current medications and supplements. Information about any personal or family history of skin cancer. Your insurance card and identification. Photos of moles you've been monitoring, if applicable.
The Mole Examination Process
Step 1: Medical History and Discussion
Your dermatologist will ask about your mole concerns and what prompted your visit, personal and family history of skin cancer, sun exposure and sunburn history, changes you've noticed in specific moles, and any symptoms like itching, bleeding, or pain.
This conversation helps your dermatologist understand your risk factors and focus attention on your specific concerns.
Step 2: Visual Examination
A comprehensive mole check involves examining your entire body, not just the spots you're concerned about. Why? Because melanoma can develop anywhere, including places you can't easily see. Hidden melanomas on the back, scalp, or between toes are often the most dangerous because they're detected late.
Dr. Rani and Dr. Patterson systematically examine every area including your scalp (parting hair to check thoroughly), face and ears (including inside ears), chest, back, and torso, arms and hands (including palms and between fingers), legs and feet (including soles and between toes), genital area (if you consent and it's clinically appropriate), and nail beds (melanoma can hide under nails).
Step 3: Dermoscopy
For any mole that looks unusual, your dermatologist will use a dermoscope—a specialized magnifying device with special lighting that allows them to see structures beneath the skin's surface.
Dermoscopy dramatically improves diagnostic accuracy, helping dermatologists distinguish between benign moles and potential melanomas. This painless procedure takes just seconds per mole but provides crucial diagnostic information.
Step 4: Digital Photography and Mole Mapping
Your dermatologist may photograph concerning moles for comparison at future visits. For high-risk patients, some practices offer total body photography or digital mole mapping—comprehensive photographic documentation of all your moles that allows precise monitoring of changes over time.
Step 5: Biopsy or Removal (If Necessary)
If a mole looks suspicious, your dermatologist may recommend immediate biopsy or removal. This quick in-office procedure typically takes just 10-20 minutes and involves numbing the area with local anesthesia, removing the mole (or a sample), sending tissue to a pathology lab for analysis, and applying a bandage or simple sutures if needed.
Results typically return within 1-2 weeks. If melanoma is detected, your dermatologist will discuss next steps, which may include additional surgery to ensure complete removal.
How Long Does a Mole Check Take?
A focused examination of one or two specific moles takes about 5-10 minutes. A comprehensive full-body mole check typically takes 15-30 minutes. First appointments may take longer due to medical history review and baseline documentation. Follow-up appointments are usually quicker since your dermatologist can focus on comparing current moles to previous documentation.
Mole Removal: When and How It's Done
Not every concerning mole needs immediate removal, but understanding the process helps if your dermatologist recommends it.
Reasons for Mole Removal
Dermatologists remove moles for several reasons:
Medical reasons: The mole shows signs of melanoma or other skin cancer. Biopsy is needed to determine if the mole is cancerous. The mole is precancerous (severely atypical) and could develop into melanoma. The mole is in a location where it's repeatedly irritated (under bra strap, on collar line, etc.).
Cosmetic reasons: Some patients choose to remove benign moles that bother them cosmetically, though this is typically not covered by insurance.
Types of Mole Removal Procedures
Shave removal: Used for raised moles that don't appear cancerous. The dermatologist numbs the area and uses a small blade to shave the mole flush with surrounding skin. No stitches needed—just a bandage. Minimal scarring, though the mole may partially grow back.
Excision with stitches: Used for flat moles or when cancer is suspected. The dermatologist cuts out the entire mole plus a margin of healthy tissue. The wound is closed with stitches (dissolvable or removable). Leaves a thin line scar that fades over time. Ensures complete removal and provides adequate tissue for pathology analysis.
Punch biopsy: Used to sample part of a large mole for testing. A circular blade removes a small column of tissue. May require one or two stitches, or can heal on its own. Useful when the dermatologist wants to test the mole before deciding on complete removal.
What to Expect After Mole Removal
Immediate aftercare: Keep the wound clean and dry for 24 hours. Apply antibiotic ointment as directed. Keep the area covered with a bandage until healed. Avoid strenuous activity that might open the wound. Watch for signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus).
Healing timeline: Shave removals heal in 1-2 weeks. Excisions with stitches take 2-3 weeks to heal. Redness and scar appearance improve over several months.
Pathology results: If the mole was sent for testing, you'll receive results in 7-14 days. Your dermatologist will call with results and discuss next steps if further treatment is needed. Even "negative" results (no cancer) are important—they confirm the mole was benign and provide peace of mind.
Finding the Best Mole Check Provider in Chicago
Not all mole examinations are created equal. Here's what separates excellent care from mediocre screening.
Board Certification Is Essential
Your provider must be board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology. This certification means they completed four years of medical school, one year of internship, three years of specialized dermatology residency training, passed comprehensive written and practical examinations, and maintain ongoing continuing education.
Dr. Monica Rani brings over 15 years of experience with dual board certifications in dermatology and internal medicine. Her diagnostic precision has helped countless patients receive accurate, timely diagnoses. Dr. Stavonnie Patterson combines advanced medical training with specific expertise in skin of color, ensuring accurate mole evaluation for Chicago's diverse population.
Look for Comprehensive Diagnostic Capabilities
The best mole check providers offer full-body examination protocols (not just checking the mole you're concerned about), dermoscopy equipment for magnified mole evaluation, on-site biopsy and removal capabilities, in-house pathology relationships for accurate tissue analysis, and digital photography or mole mapping for high-risk patients.
At Advanced Dermatology, all these capabilities are available under one roof, ensuring seamless care from initial examination through any necessary treatment.
Experience with All Skin Types
Melanoma looks different in different skin tones, and mole evaluation requires expertise across the full spectrum of human skin. If you have darker skin, working with a dermatologist experienced in skin of color is crucial.
Dr. Patterson serves as Patient Education Committee Co-chair for the Skin of Color Society and spent years as faculty at Northwestern University's Center for Ethnic Skin and Hair. Her expertise ensures accurate mole evaluation regardless of your skin tone.
Affiliation with Respected Medical Institutions
Advanced Dermatology's affiliation with the Northwestern Medicine Physician Network provides several advantages: access to cutting-edge research and treatment protocols, seamless referrals to specialists if advanced treatment is needed, the highest standards of medical care and safety, and connection to one of the nation's premier academic medical centers.
Location, Access, and Convenience
When searching "moles check near me," practical factors matter. You want a practice that's easily accessible from home or work, offers convenient parking and/or CTA access, provides flexible appointment scheduling, has early morning or evening options if needed, and welcomes new patients without long wait times.
Advanced Dermatology's South Loop location checks all these boxes. The practice is easily accessible by interstate or CTA, making it convenient for patients throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
Awards and Recognition
Being voted "Best Dermatologist Chicago" four consecutive years reflects consistent excellence in patient care, diagnostic accuracy, and overall experience. These aren't marketing claims—they're recognition from actual patients who've received care.
Mole Check Costs and Insurance Coverage
Understanding the financial aspects helps you plan for your appointment without surprises.
Insurance Coverage for Mole Examinations
Most health insurance plans cover mole checks when medically necessary. This typically includes examination of a changing or suspicious mole, routine surveillance for patients with history of melanoma or atypical nevi, mole checks for high-risk patients with family history or multiple risk factors, and removal or biopsy of suspicious moles.
What's usually covered: The examination itself (office visit). Dermoscopy and diagnostic evaluation. Biopsy or removal of suspicious moles. Pathology analysis of removed tissue.
What may not be covered: Purely cosmetic mole removal without medical indication. Mole mapping for patients without high-risk factors (may be considered elective).
Before your appointment: Call your insurance company to verify coverage. Ask if you need a referral from your primary care physician. Understand your copay or deductible. Confirm that Dr. Monica Rani is in-network with your plan.
Out-of-Pocket Costs
For patients without insurance or when services aren't covered:
Mole examination: $150-$300 for a comprehensive evaluation (focused check of one mole is typically less).
Biopsy or removal: $200-$500 depending on the procedure type and complexity.
Pathology analysis: $150-$400, though this is often included in the removal cost.
Many practices offer payment plans or financing options to make essential healthcare accessible.
The Cost of Waiting
While paying for a mole check might seem expensive, consider the alternative. Early-stage melanoma removal costs a few hundred dollars. Advanced melanoma treatment can exceed $100,000 and may not be successful. The emotional cost of a late diagnosis is immeasurable.
A professional mole check is one of the most cost-effective investments in your long-term health.
What Makes Advanced Dermatology the Top Choice for Mole Checks
When Chicago-area residents search for "moles check near me," Advanced Dermatology consistently stands out. Here's why.
Expert Diagnostic Precision
Dr. Rani's 15+ years of experience and dual board certifications mean she brings both dermatological expertise and comprehensive medical knowledge to every mole evaluation. Her reputation for diagnostic precision has made her a trusted name in Chicago dermatology.
Dr. Patterson's specialized training in skin of color and her work with the Skin of Color Society ensures accurate mole evaluation for patients of all ethnic backgrounds—critical for a diverse city like Chicago.
Comprehensive, Patient-Centered Care
The practice's approach goes beyond just looking at moles. They evaluate your overall skin health, discuss your personal risk factors and prevention strategies, provide clear explanations you can understand, answer all your questions without rushing, and create personalized monitoring plans based on your individual needs.
Patients consistently note the warm, professional atmosphere that puts them at ease during examinations.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Advanced Dermatology uses the latest diagnostic equipment including high-quality dermoscopy for detailed mole evaluation, digital photography for comparison tracking, and modern biopsy and removal techniques for optimal results and minimal scarring.
Seamless Care Coordination
If a mole needs removal, it can be done immediately in-office. If biopsy results indicate melanoma, the practice coordinates with Northwestern Medicine specialists for any additional treatment needed. Your complete care happens under one coordinated system rather than being bounced between multiple providers.
Convenient Chicago Location
The South Loop location offers easy access via CTA (Red, Orange, Green Lines nearby) or interstate (I-90/94, I-55), ample parking options, a professional yet welcoming office environment, and flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles.
Preventing Problematic Moles: Beyond Check-Ups
While regular professional mole checks are essential, prevention is your first line of defense.
Sun Protection to Prevent New Moles
UV exposure is a primary driver of new mole development and melanoma risk. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days. The ADAM Invisible Shield SPF 50 provides excellent zinc-based protection that goes on clear without leaving a white cast on any skin tone.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors, or after swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses. Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM). Never use tanning beds—they significantly increase melanoma risk.
Monthly Self-Examinations at Home
Between professional checks, examine your own moles monthly. Stand in front of a full-length mirror in bright, natural light if possible. Systematically check your entire body including hard-to-see areas using a hand mirror.
Look for: New moles appearing (especially after age 30). Changes in existing moles (size, shape, color, texture). Moles that look different from your other moles. Any spots that itch, bleed, or concern you.
Photo documentation: Take photos of moles you're monitoring. Use the same lighting and distance each time for accurate comparison. Date the photos so you can track changes over time. Bring these photos to your dermatologist appointments.
Know Your Risk Factors
Understanding your personal risk helps you be appropriately vigilant:
Higher risk factors: Fair skin that burns easily. Red or blonde hair. Blue, green, or light-colored eyes. 50+ moles. Large or atypical moles. Personal history of skin cancer. Family history of melanoma. History of severe sunburns, especially in childhood. Significant time spent outdoors (occupation or hobbies). History of tanning bed use. Weakened immune system.
If you have multiple risk factors, commit to annual professional mole checks and diligent sun protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find moles check near me in Chicago?
Start by searching for board-certified dermatologists in your area who specialize in mole evaluation and skin cancer screening. Look for practices offering comprehensive examinations (not just the mole you're concerned about), dermoscopy for detailed evaluation, on-site removal and biopsy services, and convenient locations with flexible scheduling. In Chicago, Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine in the South Loop provides expert mole checks with easy CTA and interstate access. They're part of the Northwestern Medicine Physician Network and have been voted "Best Dermatologist Chicago" four consecutive years. When evaluating options, check board certification credentials, read patient reviews, verify insurance acceptance, and look for experience with all skin types.
How much does a mole check cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a focused mole examination (checking one or two specific moles) typically costs $150-$250, while a comprehensive full-body mole check usually runs $200-$300. If biopsy or removal is needed, expect additional costs of $200-$500 depending on the procedure. However, many insurance plans cover mole checks when medically necessary, such as examining a changing or suspicious mole. High-risk patients with personal or family history of melanoma often have annual mole checks covered as preventive care. Always verify your specific coverage before the appointment. Many dermatology practices, including Advanced Dermatology, offer payment plans for patients paying out-of-pocket.
What's the difference between a mole check and skin cancer screening?
These terms are often used interchangeably, though there are subtle differences. A "mole check" typically focuses specifically on examining your moles for signs of melanoma or atypical changes. A "skin cancer screening" is more comprehensive and looks for all types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma that don't always involve moles. In practice, most board-certified dermatologists perform both simultaneously during what they call a "complete skin examination"—they check all your moles while also examining your skin for other types of cancer. At Advanced Dermatology, when you come in for a mole check, you receive a thorough evaluation of all your skin, not just your moles.
Should I get my moles checked if nothing looks wrong?
Yes, especially if you have risk factors like fair skin, numerous moles, family history of melanoma, or significant sun exposure. Many melanomas are caught during routine examinations before the patient noticed any changes. Dermatologists are trained to spot early warning signs that laypeople miss. Establishing a baseline with professional documentation makes future changes easier to identify. Annual preventive mole checks for high-risk individuals can catch melanoma at its most curable stage. Even if you don't have obvious concerns, consider getting a baseline full-body examination, especially if you've never had one. Dr. Rani and Dr. Patterson can assess your individual risk and recommend an appropriate monitoring schedule.
How long does it take to get mole check results?
The timeline depends on whether a biopsy was performed. If your dermatologist examines your moles and finds nothing concerning, you get results immediately—you'll leave knowing your moles look normal. If a mole is biopsied or removed, the tissue is sent to a pathology lab for microscopic analysis. Results typically return in 7-14 days, though sometimes urgent cases can be expedited. Your dermatologist will call you with results and discuss next steps if any treatment is needed. Even "negative" results (no cancer found) are valuable because they confirm the mole was benign and provide documentation for future comparison. At Advanced Dermatology, the team ensures you understand your results and what they mean for your ongoing care.
Take Action: Schedule Your Mole Check Today
You've taken the first step by searching for "moles check near me" and educating yourself about mole examinations. Now it's time to take the next crucial step: actually scheduling your appointment.
That changing mole, new spot, or nagging concern won't resolve itself. Professional evaluation is the only way to know for certain whether your moles are safe or need treatment. Waiting and hoping isn't a strategy—it's a risk.
The good news? Getting your moles checked is quick, painless, and could literally save your life. Early detection of melanoma has a 99% five-year survival rate. Late detection? The statistics are far less encouraging.
At Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine in Chicago's South Loop, board-certified dermatologists Dr. Monica Rani and Dr. Stavonnie Patterson provide the expert mole evaluation you need with the compassionate care you deserve.
Why Chicago-area residents choose Advanced Dermatology for mole checks:
✓ Board-certified dermatologists with over 15 years of combined expertise in mole evaluation ✓ Part of Northwestern Medicine Physician Network - world-class medical standards ✓ Voted "Best Dermatologist Chicago" 4 years running - proven patient satisfaction ✓ Comprehensive examinations checking all moles, not just your concerns ✓ Advanced dermoscopy for accurate mole assessment ✓ On-site biopsy and removal - no referrals to other offices ✓ Expertise in all skin types - Dr. Patterson specializes in skin of color ✓ Convenient South Loop location - easy CTA and interstate access ✓ Flexible scheduling with appointments available for new patients ✓ Same-day removal of suspicious moles when appropriate
What to expect at your appointment:
Warm, professional welcome from friendly staff
Thorough discussion of your concerns and medical history
Complete mole examination using advanced diagnostic tools
Clear explanations in language you understand
Immediate biopsy or removal if needed
Personalized recommendations for follow-up care
Answers to all your questions
Getting started is easy:
📞 Call (847) 802-9667 to schedule your mole check with Chicago's top-rated dermatologists
💻 Book online 24/7 - convenient scheduling at your fingertips
📍 Visit our South Loop Chicago location - easily accessible and welcoming
Stop worrying and get answers.
That mole that's been bothering you? Get it checked. Those dark spots that seem different? Get them evaluated. Your family history of melanoma? Start annual monitoring.
Peace of mind is just one appointment away. Whether you need a quick evaluation of one concerning mole or a comprehensive full-body examination, the expert team at Advanced Dermatology is ready to provide the thorough, compassionate care you deserve.
Don't let another day go by wondering if that mole is okay. Schedule your professional mole check today and take control of your skin health. Early detection saves lives, and your life is worth protecting.
New patients are always welcome. Contact Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine now to schedule your mole check with Chicago's most trusted dermatologists. Your future self will thank you.
