The shaving of my mole was done poorly (not flush with skin), so what is the best way to correct this? Re-shave or laser?(photo)

Question

A little over a week ago, I had a small, raised flesh coloured facial mole shaved for cosmetic reasons (pathology came back benign as expected). It appears that the mole was not shaved flush with my skin. As if only 3/4 of the mole was shaved. So, my question is: do I have the remainder of the mole shaved again, OR, would laser be the more ideal treatment at this point? My goal is the best cosmetic result and I am hesitant to go back to the original dermatologist either way.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Mole removal begins with a comprehensive examination and consultation to determine the likelihood of a mole being worrisome. Excisional and incisional biopsies are reserved for suspicious moles. But it’s good news that most moles are not problematic and are only cosmetic, thus leading to the option of scarless or non-surgical mole removal with lasers and RF and plasma. Our office specializes in non-surgical mole removal.

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself 100 Surgeon

Peter J. Malouf, DO · Answer

Give it 6-8 weeks. If it is still raised, it can be re-shaved flush.  Keep in mind, however, that this mole can come back and sometimes darker, which should be understood when shaving a nevus.Best,Dr. Malouf

David Reinstadler, MD · Answer

It is too early to think about any further procedures for that area. After anything is removed from the skin, your body deposits collagen in a random pattern in order to just fill the hole. This process is started with local inflammation and swelling which brings in the cells that ultimately heal the skin. At one week, there is fluid and cells in the area which will not be there long term. The swelling dissipates over the next week or so but then continues to be a bit red and irregular. This is also normal. At about the 6 week mark, the body starts to smooth out the tissue that was made to fill the defect. This 'smoothing' process can take many months and is not complete for 6-9 months. I usually recommend waiting unitl at least 8-12 weeks to get a better idea of what the area will look like in the end. Your dermatologist should be able to explain this process to you during your follow up visitsBest of luck

Parker A. Velargo, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest addressing your concern with your doctor.  Swelling is present at one week and may cause the shaved area to appear raised.  Most of the swelling should be gone around 6-8 weeks.  If you are still unhappy, I would suggest re-shaving the lesion. Lasers are more prone to go deeper than needed, and I have much better depth control and artistic capability with a scalpel in my hand.  It's better to not exchange a mole for a hole by being too aggressive.  It's easier to take more off than add volume.  Good luck!

The shaving of my mole was done poorly (not flush with skin), so what is the best way to correct this? Re-shave or laser?(photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Mole excision

Answer: Mole excision

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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.

The shaving of my mole was done poorly (not flush with skin), so what is the best way to correct this? Re-shave or laser?(photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Mole excision

Answer: Mole excision

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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.