Can removing moles cause new ones to appear in areas close to initial moles?

Question

Dear doctor I had 8 small moles removed from my head with a laser about 10 months ago. And I notice that new moles appear in other areas of my scalp since then. Can removing moles cause new moles to appear in areas close to the areas from which moles were removed?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concern. It’s understandable to wonder if removing moles could trigger new ones nearby. The short answer is that removing moles—whether by laser, excision, or other methods—does not cause new moles to form in adjacent areas. Moles develop due to a combination of genetics, sun exposure, and other factors, so new moles can appear over time naturally, regardless of previous removals.

It’s important to keep an eye on any new or changing spots on your scalp or elsewhere, especially if they grow quickly, change color, bleed, or look different from your other moles. Regular skin checks, either self-exams or by a dermatologist, are the best way to monitor these changes safely.

In short: the new moles are likely unrelated to the laser removal you had, but ongoing vigilance is key.

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

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself 100 Surgeon

Can removing moles cause new ones to appear in areas close to initial moles?

Answers (2)

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