Can a mole removed by excision grow back?

Question

I had a mole on my cheek removed in September by excision. I had stitches both externally and internally. I've always heard that a mole removed my excision should not grow back. Well six months later it looks like there is a very small pigment of the mole returning. Could a mole that has been removed this way return in such short time? Thanks.

Joseph McGowan, MD · Answer

Hello There, Yes it is possible for a mole to recur after excision. Even with clear margins, sometimes moles can recur and should be re-excised, especially if the initial lesion demonstrated atypical features microscopically. I would recommend checking in with your dermatologist for re-evaluation and most likely a re-excision

Merrick D. Elias, DO, FAAD · Answer

A nevus (mole) may recur after excision.  The term we use is nevus recurrens or recurrent nevus.  It is also possible that your mole was not completely excised.  Make sure the original pathology was reviewed by your physician and an in-person evaluation of your current lesion is performed by a board-certified dermatologist.

Jeremy S. Hurren, BSc, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

If you ask the question 'could' the answer will usually be yes.
If the mole was benign and it was completely removed and this was confirmed on histopathology it would be very unusual for it to grow back and so quickly. However, one could not say it would never happen.
You mention that it was stitched internally and sometimes a bit of suture material can come to the surface and this might give the impression of the mole coming back.
You are best advised to see the surgeon who carried out your surgery and or a suitably trained and experienced plastic surgeon or dermatologist.
Best wishes

Can a mole removed by excision grow back?

Answers (3)

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