I had a benign mole removed. Should I be worried about the leftover pigmentation? (Photo)

Question

About ten years ago, I had a mole on my face examined. They shaved off part of it and it came back benign. I’ve had this funky pigmentation left over ever since. It’s almost like the leftover of the mole, but it’s irregularly shaped. Recently, Ive just been nervous that maybe the irregular shape should be concerning?

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

Eduardo Ochoa, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question and providing picture!

If you are not happy how it looks or are concerned about irregularities or changes in color or shape of the remains of the mole I suggest you remove it completely and have it send to pathology so your surgeon can rule out any malignancy and get rid of any anxiety this issue may be causing. Its a very simple procedure, shouldn´t take more than a few minutes and it´s done under local anesthesia.

I hope you find this useful, wish you the best

Keith M. Blechman, MD · Answer

I don’t favor the shave technique for exactly this reason.  Commonly, it leaves some of the mole behind leading to aesthetic and/or diagnostic concerns later on.  Completely excising the mole full thickness and then putting in a few tiny stitches is much more effective for completely removing it.  Excision is a simple office procedure that can performed under local anesthesia.A visit to a plastic surgeon's office will help you to understand if you're a candidate for the procedure, and what aesthetic and/or functional outcomes are realistic in your particular case.  In order to get a qualified, ethical, and expert opinion on your surgical options and expectations, always schedule an in-person office consultation with a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Best of luck,
Keith M. Blechman, MD
New York, NY

Amy Miller, MD · Answer

As long as the pigment hasn't changed or enlarged it is most likely regrowth or left over pigment from the original benign mole.  Since it was biopsied there will be a bit of scar tissue in there which can cause an irregular or jagged appearance to the border.  HOWEVER, if it is changing or looking different to you --I would get it checked out.  Most dermatologist should be able to examine it with a dermascope and give you an idea if there is anything brewing in there that needs to come off.
Hope this is helpful!  Best Regards,
Dr. Amy

I had a benign mole removed. Should I be worried about the leftover pigmentation? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Remnants of mole biopsy

Answer: Remnants of mole biopsy

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I had a benign mole removed. Should I be worried about the leftover pigmentation? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Remnants of mole biopsy

Answer: Remnants of mole biopsy

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Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

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