Mole removal scar. Will it improve? (Photo)

Question

My daughter just have a mole removed from her right cheek 3 days ago, I didn't expected for the cut to be sooo big, I am very nervous to see if this will heal and this will look in her pretty little face. She is only 12.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I am unsure why this is such a large excision, but the suture line looks good.  Typically we review all our excisions with the parents prior to removal.  I also remove these with lasers to limit scars especially in children, unless there is concern of cancer.  My suggestion is dermaflage and sunprotection now, and to start laser treatments in a few weeks (3-6 weeks after suture removal).  Best, Dr. Emer.

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD · Answer

Optimally, you should have been shown how big of a scar to expect.  I generally like to tell my patients what to expect with mole removal.  That being said, yes, the scar will definitely improve with time.  It takes a full year for scars to mature.  In the mean time, she needs super strict sun protection for the scar to look its best.  I like a product called BioCorneum because it has silicone (which has the best evidence for scar improvement) and SPF in one cream.  About a week after the stitches are removed, she can massage the area a few times daily with her fingers which will help break up any stiff scar tissue that forms.  Early laser therapy can also be helpful with scars - Pulsed dye laser can help with the redness.  Overall, I'm sure you weren't expecting such a big scar, but measures can be taken to make it look its best.  Faces heal well, and kids heal well!

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

The incision should have been marked on the skin before the excision and you as the mother should have approved it or not. A board certified plastic surgeon should and would have done that. Now just wait and see. it takes about one year for the scar to mature. Meanwhile consult a plastic surgeon for scar care (Silicone gel sheeting), possible laser resurfacing, several over a long period of time and the right timing for that.

Mole removal scar. Will it improve? (Photo)

Answers (3)

More Mole Removal Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (3)

More Mole Removal Questions

I have a small mole on my face that annoys me. Anyway to remove it at home? (photos)

How much does it cost to remove a beauty mark? (Photo)

How much is a mole excision in New York, NY in 2015?

I have this black/purple pump/mole. Will it continue to grow? (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS