Mole/birthmark Removal, Should I Do It Surgically or with Electrocautery?

Question

Hi I have this mole/birthmark its a completely flat brown nevus on my arm probably 1 cm wide and I have always felt insecure about it and finally at 20 ive decided im going to get it removed. I went to a laser clinic and they told me that because its very deep, I would need electrocautery laser to remove it. However, thats going to leave white scarring and and its going to cost 500$. Do you think I should go with electrocautery or have it removed surgically? And what would be the less scarring?

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Dark Brown or Black Pigmented Birthmark removal
	The best way to remove this would be direct excision with closure in such a way to leave a minimal scar. . Lasers are generally not used and it is customary to send what was removed to a pathologist for analysis to make sure it is not worrisome.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

Complete surgical excision is recommended in this case.  It is advised to send the specimen to pathology for complete analysis to confirm whether it is benign or malignant.  With this procedure, you will be replacing the lesion with a linear scar.

Genevieve F. Caron, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question
Judging by what i see on your picture I recommend you consult a Board certified plastic surgeon in your area for direct excision. But you need to be aware that the excision will leave a linear line.
Best Wishes
Dr Genevieve FCaron, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Montreal, Canada

Raj S. Ambay, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  There are various ways to remove birthmarks, depending on its etiology.  For example, a birthmark caused due to a vascular problem needs a completely different treatment than a birthmark such as a mole.  More often than not, vascular birthmarks need to have some form of laser treatment.  They can require more, but a laser is generally a minimum.  Other birthmarks such as a mole, can be excised in the office with relative ease.  The size and location will determine the final outcome.  A photograph always helps but there is no substitute for and in person physical examination.  Make sure you visit with a board certified plastic surgeon for the best outcomes.

Mole/birthmark Removal, Should I Do It Surgically or with Electrocautery?

Answers (8)

Answer: A: Birthmark

Answer: A: Birthmark

Answer: Mole should be removed surgically

Answer: Mole should be removed surgically

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Mole/birthmark Removal, Should I Do It Surgically or with Electrocautery?

Answers (8)

Answer: A: Birthmark

Answer: A: Birthmark

Answer: Mole should be removed surgically

Answer: Mole should be removed surgically

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.