Should I be concerned about a mole growing back after removal 10 years ago, that was never sent off for pathology?

Question

I had a raised mole on my neck removed about 10 years ago due to sensitivity and bleeding. It was shaved off and no pigmentation was left behind. The doctor didn't send it off for pathology (I know this because I worked for her). I noticed today that it is growing back. It is brown in color, slightly raised, and it's within the very faint scar that was left behind. Should I be concerned?

Eric Schweiger, MD · Answer

Having a benign (noncancerous) mole shave excised (a process of removing that which grows on or just below the skin’s surface) can be an effective method to remove a mole with minimal scarring.  However, in some cases portions of the mole can be left behind leaving the possibility of regrowth.  This regrowth does not necessarily signify anything dangerous. Having a trained practitioner in dermatology re-evaluate the mole in this case can provide you with the reassurance that this is not something that warrants further action.

Lindsey Finklea, MD · Answer

The fact that it has regrown is not concerning--the fact that the original mole was thrown away IS concerning! Often moles will re-grow if any cell is left behind. The dermatologist will see no pigment left behind after the removal and hope that the mole is completely removed. Later, the mole regrows, meaning the derm did in fact leave a little of the mole behind. We assume that this re-growing mole would be no more dangerous than the original...but your original was never tested. I would go and have it removed again (and sent into the pathologist). The pathologist will have a harder time now reading the pathology this time, as moles recurring in a scar are harder to decipher from melanoma. They ofter rely on the original mole for comparison (which you don't have). Regardless, a skilled derm/pathologist will put your mind at ease.

Should I be concerned about a mole growing back after removal 10 years ago, that was never sent off for pathology?

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Should I be concerned about a mole growing back after removal 10 years ago, that was never sent off for pathology?

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Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.