Is my mole healing OK after mole shave or does it look infected? What steps should I take to ensure fast healing? (Photo)

Question

I had my mole removed two days ago by a plastic surgeon. He shaved the superficial layer of my raised mole off. The mole is on my face and I am worried that it is not healing properly, it looks almost infected. I have been applying polysporin a few times a day, as I have read it is best to keep the wound moist.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I would use a combination of local wound care (Ceralase or Neosporin) followed by application of Plato's Scar Serum and pulsed dye laser to help the mole removal scar. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD · Answer

You mole appears to be healing fine.  The yellow coloration you see is something called fibrin, which is part of wound healing, but many people mistake it for infection.  It is definitely better to keep the wound moist, and sometimes this is the appearance you can get with keeping it covered and moist.  Most of us are used to seeing a scab, but you will heal much better continuing with what you are doing.That being said, nothing replaces an in-person examination, so I would encourage you to see your surgeon for an in-person opinion.

Estee Williams, MD · Answer

Call your doctor and tell him about your symptoms.   You may need a topical antibiotic ointment for a few days to help healing and make you more comfortable.  Be well.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

You should consider excising the spot. This is why we don't do shave biopsies to the facial region due to unsightly looking blemishes. A consultation is needed for definitive recommendation.

Is my mole healing OK after mole shave or does it look infected? What steps should I take to ensure fast healing? (Photo)

Answers (4)