Moles on nipples

[beautyjunkie]

This is embarrassing but I have what look like small moles on my nipples. Could these moles be serious and mean I am more likely to develop breast cancers?

[Dr Anton Alexandroff]

Dear Beautyjunkie,

Thank you for your question. Moles behave in the same way in different locations and can happen anywhere on skin. Therefore moles on nipples behave in the same way as moles let's say on your arm or leg. Moles on nipples do not increase a risk of breast cancer. We do not recommend to remove moles for cosmetic reasons because surgery creates a scar. But suspicious moles should be removed or sampled for a diagnostic purpose. If you are not sure check your moles with your GP or dermatologist. Also if moles are not suspicious but they are troublesome e.g. they catch on clothes, they can be removed. The inconvenience should be balanced against a risk of permanent scar.

I hope this is helpful.
With Best Wishes,

Dr Anton Alexandroff FRCP(UK) PhD CCT(Derm) FRSM FAAD
Consultant Dermatologist and Honorary Senior Lecturer
The British Skin Foundation Spokesperson
London, Cambridge, Leicester and Bedford

http://www.alexandroff.org.uk
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