Beverly Hills Dermatology
Moles, Warts & Skin Lesions in Beverly Hills
Evaluation first, then biopsy or removal — because the most important question about any skin growth is what it actually is.
- Verified Reviews
- 792
- Overall Rating
- 4.77★
- Bedside Manner
- 4.84★
- Years in Practice
- 20+
Overview
Skin growths are common and most are benign, but they are not interchangeable. Moles (nevi) require assessment for atypical features. Warts are caused by human papillomavirus and are contagious and often recurrent. Seborrheic keratoses are benign, waxy, 'stuck-on' papules that increase with age. Skin tags, dermatofibromas, and epidermoid cysts each have their own characteristic appearance and behavior. Occasionally a lesion a patient assumes is benign turns out to be a skin cancer — which is exactly why evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist precedes removal.
Dr. Zaks examines each lesion carefully and determines whether it needs biopsy, treatment, removal, or simply photographic monitoring. When a lesion has suspicious features and time and authorization allow, biopsy may be performed the same day during the same visit, with specimens read by board-certified dermatopathologists and results typically available within five business days. Medically indicated evaluation and removal are covered by most major PPO plans and Medicare.
Lesions Evaluated and Treated
Moles (Nevi)
Assessed for asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, size, and change. Atypical moles are biopsied; stable ones are photographed and monitored.
Warts (HPV)
Common, plantar, and flat warts caused by human papillomavirus. Treated with cryotherapy, topical therapy, or destruction; multiple sessions are often needed.
Seborrheic Keratoses
Benign waxy, 'stuck-on' brown papules that increase with age. Removed when irritated or cosmetically bothersome.
Skin Tags (Acrochordons)
Soft, pedunculated growths in areas of friction such as the neck, axillae, and eyelids. Simple in-office removal.
Epidermoid Cysts
Firm subcutaneous nodules that can become inflamed. Managed by drainage or excision depending on presentation.
Suspicious Lesions
Lesions with concerning features are evaluated to determine whether biopsy, removal, or monitoring is appropriate. When indicated, biopsy may be performed the same day.
The Treatment Experience
Examination and diagnosis
Dr. Zaks examines the lesion carefully and determines whether it is benign, requires biopsy, or should be monitored at follow-up visits.
Discussion of options
You are told what the lesion most likely is, whether removal is medically indicated or cosmetic, what technique is appropriate, and what mark to expect afterward.
In-office procedure
Under local anesthesia, removal is performed by shave, punch, excision, cryotherapy, or electrosurgery, depending on the lesion. Most procedures take only minutes.
Pathology and wound care
Specimens are sent for histologic examination, with results typically in five business days. You receive specific wound care instructions and a follow-up plan.
Important Information
- Lesions with suspicious features are evaluated and, when appropriate, sent for pathology before cosmetic removal.
- Warts are caused by a virus, are contagious, and commonly recur; more than one treatment session is usually required.
- Removal always leaves some mark. Dr. Zaks selects the technique that balances complete treatment against the best cosmetic outcome.
- Medically indicated removal is generally covered by insurance; purely cosmetic removal typically is not, and our office reviews costs with you in advance.
- Report any mole that is changing in size, shape, or color, or that bleeds or itches, promptly rather than at your next routine visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a mole needs to be removed?
Dr. Zaks assesses it against the ABCDE criteria and its overall appearance relative to your other moles. Atypical or changing lesions are biopsied; stable, benign-appearing moles are usually photographed and monitored.
Will removal leave a scar?
Some mark is unavoidable with any removal. The technique is chosen to balance complete treatment with the best possible cosmetic outcome, and careful wound care improves the final result.
How long do biopsy results take?
Typically five business days. Specimens are read by board-certified dermatopathologists and Dr. Zaks reviews the findings with you.
How are warts treated?
With cryotherapy, topical therapy, or in-office destruction depending on the type and location. Because warts are viral, multiple sessions are commonly needed and recurrence is possible.
Is removal covered by insurance?
Medically indicated evaluation, biopsy, and removal are covered by most major PPO plans and Medicare. Purely cosmetic removal generally is not. Our office reviews this with you before the procedure.
Can I have a mole removed for cosmetic reasons?
Yes, but it will still be evaluated first and, when appropriate, sent for pathology so the diagnosis is known.
Does removal hurt?
Local anesthesia is used, so you feel the injection and then pressure rather than pain. Most removals take only a few minutes.
Patient Reviews
“I have been going to Dr. Zaks for over 4 years. His outstanding skill, great bedside manner, warm personality, and artistry with Botox make me come back again and again!”
“I had Rosacea on my face for over 10 years. Dr. Zaks quickly reduced this embarrassing condition. Nobody else could help me. He's the best Dermatologist in LA hands down!”
“Dr. Zaks did not rush and he gave me 100% attention. He did not try to sell me product or convince me to try aggressive procedures which I appreciated.”
“Doctor took the time to explain the technical aspects of my condition, the treatment options and the expectations.”
About Dr. Boris Zaks, MD
Dr. Boris Zaks personally performs every procedure at Superior Beverly Hills Dermatology — never rotating assistants. He has practiced dermatology in Beverly Hills for more than twenty years.
- Board Certified — American Board of Dermatology (since 2002)
- Medical Degree — UCLA School of Medicine
- Chief Resident — Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science
- B.S. Biology — UCLA, Summa Cum Laude (age 19)
- Medical Board of California Expert Reviewer since 2009
- Super Doctors® 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 & 2027 (Southern California)
- "Rock Star Dermatologist" — Glamour Magazine
Schedule Your Consultation
435 N. Roxbury Drive, Suite 408, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · Monday–Friday · (310) 552-3376
Paid parking on-site, or free 2-hour parking at 461 N. Bedford Drive Garage, 1 block away
Areas Served
Patients seek Moles, Warts & Skin Lesions at Dr. Zaks’s Beverly Hills office from throughout greater Los Angeles: West Hollywood, Bel Air, Brentwood, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Westwood, Century City, Culver City, Marina del Rey, Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Torrance, Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Irvine.