I recently got a mole biopsied and there's pigment left after the shave biopsy. Is it normal to have pigment left over? (photo)

Question

I noticed a small mole in between my buttocks a couple of months, 3mm, hasn't changed color or shape ever since I noticed it and I monitor it pretty often. A couple of days ago I realized the mole felt really dry and a layer of dead skin fell off. I got really anxious and went to my derm to get it biopsied. She did a shave biopsy and mentioned there's a residual pigment left but told me I shouldn't worry about it. I'm getting quite anxious and wonderingIs it normal to have pigment left after a shave?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is typical. This can be removed with laser, radiowave or shave. I recommend following up with your cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

William T. Massengale, MD · Answer

Yes.  Dermatologists often sample the mole using the shave biopsy technique.  During this procedure the portion of the mole above the skin surface is removed and tested.  Pigment cells often go deeper than the surface and can repigment the skin after this incomplete removal technique.  The rule of thumb is that if the top of the mole is benign, recurrent pigment after shave removal is considered benign as well.  If you are desiring a more "permanent" fix, excision and suture is a complete removal.  Hope this helps.

I recently got a mole biopsied and there's pigment left after the shave biopsy. Is it normal to have pigment left over? (photo)

Answers (2)