Cancer After Superficial Mole Removal?

Question

I had a non-cancerous mole removed by laser. The mole was quite deep so not all of the mole was removed. What happens if the little bit of mole left under the surface of the skin becomes cancerous after some years? Is it possible for the cancer to go unnoticed? Will scar tissue from the laser removal some years earlier hide the cancer to me or the dermatologist?

William Ting, MD · Answer

Incompletely excised or lasered moles can grow back looking atypical. The key is to have the original specimen biopsy and if the pathology indicated benign nature of the lesion, then subsequent residual mole can be monitored.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Moles are not supposed to be removed by laser.  Lasers were designed for pigmented patches or sun damage.  The general consensus is that a mole needs to be removed surgically and sent to the laboratory for analysis.  I understand why you are concerned about the mole and what is left.  I recommend seeing an experienced board certified dermatologist who understands both cosmetic and medical dermatology.

Lisa Benest, MD · Answer

You are not at any greater risk for cancer having had the mole removed by laser.  If you do happen to develop cancer in the residual mole (most moles never become cancerous) you will notice some change to the area.  The scar will not hide the cancer and will not cause the cancer to spread under the skin.  However, keep in mind that moles can return, and any evidence of recurrence does not mean it is cancerous.  If that were to happen, have a dermatologist examine the area and possibly test it with a biopsy.

Jessica J. Krant, MD, MPH · Answer

I just posted another answer on exactly this topic. I agree with your concern about difficulty monitoring the root cells of a mole that may be left under the surface after laser mole removal. For this reason, I disagree with using this method to remove moles at all. I prefer a small shave biopsy and sending the mole tissue for pathologic evaluation. Unfortunately, trying to "melt" away a mole for cosmetic purposes does leave you at some risk. It's hard to have it both ways.

Robert Kasten, MD · Answer

A benign (good natured) mole usually stays benign, even if it was not removed completely. As you seem bothered, I would recommend to have the mole emoved completely by an excision a have it sutured cosmetically.   Naturally, the specimen sould be sent to the lab.

Cancer After Superficial Mole Removal?

Answers (8)

Answer: Laser removal of moles is not a good idea.

Answer: Laser removal of moles is not a good idea.

Answer: Mole removal- the biopsy will prove its nature

Answer: Mole removal- the biopsy will prove its nature

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

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

Cancer After Superficial Mole Removal?

Answers (8)

Answer: Laser removal of moles is not a good idea.

Answer: Laser removal of moles is not a good idea.

Answer: Mole removal- the biopsy will prove its nature

Answer: Mole removal- the biopsy will prove its nature

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

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