Mole Nose Removal: Best Option? (photo)

Question

Hello all I have a flesh coloured mole on my nose (Picture attached). A platician told me it's impossible to remove it because if he does a fusiform opening when he'll close the borders, my nostril will probably go a little bit up as the skin is not really flexible here. My derms (who il also specialized in surgery) told me he can either remove it (full excision) or shave it. Who is right ? If it's shaved it will probably reoccurs but is it a matter of days or years ?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Surgical shave excision can improve the cosmetic appearance of this mole, but there will still remain a chance of regrowth. I would perform the mole removal in my Los Angeles practice under local anesthesia.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

I would recommend that you have a shave excision done on the mole.  At the same time, a laser can be used to smooth the edges.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

Since the mole on your nose is raised, I would recommend shaving it off, as this should leave the least noticeable scarring. It will take several days for it to heal and will prevent the need for any sutures. I doubt that it would recur, but if it does, it normally would take years.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Since your mole is flesh colored, shaving it flat and having the edges curretted to blend into the surrounding skin is probably your best option since it will look like nothing was ever there and it is a 50-50 shot whether it will ever grow back and if it does, then it usually takes 5-10 yrs and can be shaved flat again at that time. Excision won't raise your nostril since there is enough skin stretch back that will prevent that because the skin is elastic but you will have a little scar.  Dermabrasion of the scar will help blend it though and should be done at the time of excision and again 4 months later for best results. Sincerely,

	David Hansen,MD

Dev Wali, MD · Answer

The direction of the scar and how it is excised will make the difference in how good your nose will look after. If the mole is removed with the understanding of basic plastic surgery principles and techniques it is quite possible to get a good result. Sometimes a simple full thickness and cleverly oriented excision, will achieve the best result. An experienced board certified plastic surgeon can likely properly advise you of your options.

Mole Nose Removal: Best Option? (photo)

Answers (10)