Mole shaved but never fully went away. Should it be re-evaluated? (Photos)

Question

Hello All, I had a mole in between my toes that popped up back in 2020. As it was new, i went to a dermatologist to have it checked out. They shaved it and submitted for biopsy. I was later called and told it was negative. However, I noticed it never fully went away. It was a bit more round originally. Now it’s still the same color but a bit faded and seems to be integrated with my skin. I can’t feel it when i run my finger over it. It’s not giving me any issues other than visually. This was 6 years ago and im wondering if this should warrant further inspection?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

This is actually a very common situation after a shave removal, and what you’re describing sounds most consistent with a recurrent or persistent nevus.

With shave biopsies, the deeper portion of the mole can remain in the skin, so it may fade but not completely disappear, or even repigment slightly over time. The fact that:

- it’s flat
- not changing
- asymptomatic
- and has been stable for years

are all reassuring features.

That said, there are two important points in your case:

- The lesion is on the foot (between the toes), which is a location where we tend to be a bit more cautious
- It has persisted rather than fully resolving

Because of that, I would recommend a re-evaluation with dermoscopy. In many cases, this is simply for confirmation and reassurance.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thanks for your pictures and questions. While it can be normal for a pigmented skin lesion to come back after a shave biopsy because the base of the lesion is not always completely removed, I would always advise caution and have any suspect skin lesions evaluated by your dermatologist. Hope this helps!
Dallas Buchanan, MD
VIVIFY plastic surgery
Tampa, FL

Mole shaved but never fully went away. Should it be re-evaluated? (Photos)

Answers (2)

More Mole Removal Questions

Mole removal in pubic hair area - should it be evaluated? (Photo)

How can I remove these dark spots/hyperpigmentation on the glans of my penis?

Does this mole look okay? Should I have it removed? (Photo)

Mole removal under nose - will I have a gap or hole in my philtrum or will it grow back? (Photo)

Does this mole look normal? Does it need to be removed? (Photo)

What is the best way to remove the mole at the tip of my nose? (Photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS