How is scalpel sculpting different from shave excision for mole removal?

Question

I was recently introduced to the idea of scalpel sculpting instead of laser mole removal. I have three small moles i want to removal, two flat on my cheek and one slightly raised on nose. I heard shave excision has high chance of scar but scalpel sculpting doesn't. what is the difference between these two that would affect scarring chances?

Monika Kiripolsky, MD · Answer

Hi! It sounds as if someone is just trying to sound more unique to attract more patients by simply changing the name of shave removal to "scalpel sculpting" when they are describing how they remove a mole ;) A scalpel is actually often used to do a shave removal of a mole. This procedure can be done with minimal scarring. 
What is MOST important is for you to pick a board-certified dermatologist for two reasons. . . 1. The doctor looking at the mole will be able to tell you for certain whether or not it looks concerning for skin cancer. And, 2. board-certified dermatologists have had special training for YEARS specifically on the skin and how to minimize scarring. 
You also mentioned laser mole removal at the beginning of your question. We do also have several options to remove a mole with a laser (most notably, a carbon dioxide laser). I'd go with whatever your dermatologist recommends since she/he knows what will cause the least scarring and get you the best results. You only have one face, you know?
Hope this helps!
Dr. Kiripolsky

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