What to Expect for Scar After Mole Removal?

Scalpel Sculpting is an excellent method, particularly for removing growths elevated above the skin surface. I have used it for removing facial moles on both my seven and eleven year olds.  Immediately following the administration of a small amount of local anesthetic just beneath the spot, the doctor uses a scalpel to remove it with a horizontal, back and forth, “sawing” motion of the scalpel blade that essentially “sculpts” the undesirable area away from... more

The scar after mole removal depends on numerous things including the skill of the physician, technique used (shave vs. deep excision with stitches), healing ability of the patient, size and depth of the mole, etc. Your dermatologist can best determine the type of scar after examining the mole. The scar will continue to improve for up to 2 years after the surgery. Generally, older patients heal much better than younger patients.

There are two possible methods for surgically "removing" the mole. The first is a flat shave removal, which would leave the root of the mole underneath the surface of her skin (to potentially slowly regrow, but not necessarily), but leave a flat, nondistorting scar that might have the potential to heal extremely well, especially for short-term purposes. The second method is a small elliptical excision which would remove the entire mole including the root, but would leave a linear... more

One of the most common difficulties after mole removal is a scar. Often times, patients want to remove a mole for cosmetic reasons and do not realize that the removal will result in a scar. The type of scar often depends on the site of the removal, the age of the patient, the skill level of the surgeon and the aftercare of the wound. Several studies have shown that wounds heal faster with salve and scarring is minimized. It is important to apply plain vaseline to the removal site 2-3x/day... more

Any surgical incision will leave a scar, and the larger the mole, the larger the scar.  Achieving he best possible scar requires careful planning, meticulous technique, and extensive experience.  Visit a local qualified facial plastic surgeon or cosmetic dermatologist to discuss your daughter's specific needs. Hope this helps.