Mole Removal Before or After Chemical Peel?

Question

I have a tiny mole on my upper lip that I want to get rid of it. Should I have it removed first then do the peeling, or should I do the opposite? Will it have any effect on my skin or conflict with the chemicals that will be used on my face?

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

I would encourage you to remove the mole first and then wait at least 6 weeks or longer to do the chemical peel.

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

I recommend removing the mole first and then allowing at least 4 -6 weeks for it to heal. Then go for your chemical peel, as the scar and any pigmentation issues can be improved with the peel.

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

I assume that the mole is on the skin part of the lip and not the red lip. I recommend mole removal first and follow up with the peel 4 to 8 weeks later. Staging it in this manner may lead to a better outcome for the mole scar.

Edward E. Dickerson, IV, MD · Answer

It would be best to remove the mole first, then 4-6 weeks later have the chemical peel.
	This way the chemical peel can possible help fade the scarring from the mole removal.

	 

	"Dr.D"

Christopher J. Peers, MD · Answer

If the mole is on a part of the lip that would get the peel, then it makes sense to remove it first; waiting about 6 weeks or slightly more, and then go for the peel. That way it will help even out the tone on the area of the removal. You may even want to wait even longer - such as 12 weeks so the removal site will have faded and most of the swelling will be gone.

Mole Removal Before or After Chemical Peel?

Answers (7)