Can a mole grow back bigger/different after picking it off? (Photo)

Question

I had a tiny new mole on the bottom of my right foot. I got nervous and picked it out with a needle. After 3 months it seemed to have grown back slightly larger and a bit of a different shape. Can moles grow back differently when you pick at them?

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  I would definitely recommend an appointment with your board certified dermatologist for evaluation of this lesion.  They will look very closely at the mole or spot with a special instrument and give you their professional advice if it is potentially skin cancer or if it has regular or benign features.  Moles on the feet can be skin cancer or might just be normal,  so while it is not possible to tell with a photo alone, I would like you to see your dermatologist about this.  Take care!

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and photo. It is difficult to adequately assess your skin through photographs and this type of forum. With that said, I do see a brown spot on your skin. If moles are not removed properly and completely, they have a tendency to recur, and may look different than before. I would highly recommend a consultation by a board certified dermatologist for evaluation of your skin and discussion of appropriate treatment. Best of luck.

Can a mole grow back bigger/different after picking it off? (Photo)

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Can a mole grow back bigger/different after picking it off? (Photo)

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