Is there any possible way to reduce a mole instead of removing it completely?

Question

I have a brown mole that is larger than I would like right in the middle of my forehead. I have had it since birth so it has really become part of my identity. I don’t mind having it at all, I just wish it was slightly smaller. Is there any way to reduce its size or even lighten the color of it? I would hate to have to part with it completely. Thanks.

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

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself 100 Surgeon

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

I would definitely see a board certified plastic surgeon to assess your mole, especially if it is a large one.  Larger pigmented moles, even those present at birth, do have a potential for degeneration to cancerous moles.

It is not appropriate in such a case to laser or treat the mole for its appearance alone.  Imagine missing a melanoma on a young patient!

In the case of very large moles, there are various options to remove all of the mole, or part of it in combination with a biopsy.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Moles can be removed with laser, radiowave or shave. There is always a chance of scar but this can be reduced with good technique and the right treatment choice. You need to pretreat this area with emerageskin AOX-C, Skinceuticals phytoplus in the AM and Reveskin retinol 1.0 at night with fortified bleaching cream or vivatia foam. Best, Dr. Emer

Is there any possible way to reduce a mole instead of removing it completely?

Answers (3)

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