Mobile Dermatologists

Does Mole Removal by Electrocautery Cause Bad Scarring?

I've been self conscious of a small black-dotted mole (sharp tip of a pencil) between my eyebrows. I went to an esthetician for consultation. She recommended electrocautery and that its a minor procedure. She said either there will be no scar or that it will be very minimal. Now I understand that it will not be sent to pathology. I just wanted to know if the procedure will cause bad scarring or anything undesirable. Can anyone give me some sort of advice? Thank you very much.

I would not recommend having an aesthetician remove a "mole" with electrocautery.  the more prudent thing to do would be to have a dermatologist evaluate the skin lesion, let you know exactly what it is, and then tell you the best method to remove it if it is cosmetically undesirable. If is has enlarged, changed color, become asymmetric or has started looking a bit different than other skin lesions on your face, then it should be removed and be evaluated by a fellowship trained skin pathologist (dermatopathologist).

Thomas W. Bender, III MD

Mobile Dermatologic Surgeon

I Cannot Afford Any Tattoo Removal Procedure. What's my Safest At-Home Removal Option?

I have consulted a surgeon & I cannot afford any tattoo removal procedure. However, I've had enough of the tattoo on my neck, especially because it held me from joining the military 7 years ago. I want it off this year so I can join before I turn 29. My question is, would it be safer to have a friend cut it out or sand it off? I understand it's dangerous & perhaps foolish but please understand that I can't live a life of regret any longer. Please...which option is safer for a tattoo on neck.

First I would not let anyone that is not properly trained try to remove your tattoo.  Excision, cutting out, a tattoo can be a less expensive option for removal than laser.  You should see a dermatologist or surgeon and get prices.  It may surprise you.  It is much less costly than laser.  The price depends on the size of the tattoo.  Most sanding procedures do not go deep enough to remove the pigment from tattoos unless they are one color and done by amateurs.

The other thing is a camouflage make-up like dermablend can be very helpful.  It is waterproof and does a great job at hiding tattoos.

Heather Haley, MD

Mobile Dermatologic Surgeon

Is IPL and Radio Frequency Hair Removal Treatment Safe for Someone with Type II Diabetes?

My diabetes is well controlled through tablets. I have an olive complexion and dark hair. I'm looking to purchase a home version for my legs.

Safety should not be an issue for you. However, efficacy may be more of an issue. Darker skin makes hair removal process harder because the light has a difficult time separating the color in your dark skin from the color in your hair. So, I agree with the other answer, try a small area or test spot before treating your legs.

Heather Haley, MD

Mobile Dermatologic Surgeon