Mole Removal Scars: Will mole removal leave a scar?

Will mole removal leave a scar?

A mole or naevus is made up of naevus cells, which extend right through the skin. Therefore, if removal is to be complete, it will leave a hole. Whichever way this heals, there will be a scar. It is our job to minimize this scar.

Date: 21st December 2020

Last reviewed: 16th January 2024

Will mole removal leave a scar?

If the mole is tiny, leaving the hole to heal on its own, may be best. Usually, the hole is refashioned in order to allow stitching in the direction which gives the least scarring, usually in the line of skin tension, for example, the smile lines on the face. Face stitches can be removed early before they themselves cause extra scars, but elsewhere we might use buried dissolving sutures reinforced with tape to again avoid stitch marks.

If the mole is only a problem because it is raised, then sometimes they can be snipped or lasered off. Remember, however, that although the skin is now flat, half the naevus is still there. It might regrow with pigment or look like a mottled scar. This is not often acceptable on the face. Hairy moles need to be completely removed to stop regrowth of the hair from deep hair follicles. A suspicious mole that is thought could be malignant should be cut out to provide tissue for diagnosis under the microscope.

Whichever method is used, we need to keep the skin clean to avoid infection and a worse scar. Antibiotics should not be used to avoid infection, being reserved for treatment of infection.

Some areas of the body make for worse scars than others and some people are more prone to scarring. We now have a genetic test (BILHI) to determine if you are likely to get a bad scar, a keloid. The Cadogan Clinic is the first place in the UK to offer this.

Cosmetic Surgery

Scar Revision

Scar revision and reduction can surgically or non-surgically improve the appearance of a scar.

What are the ways to reduce mole scars?

The reduction of a mole scar is best done by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who is up to date with the latest treatment options and able to accurately recommend the right treatment for you.

Some of the various options for mole scar removal include silicone gel sheets, laser treatment, injections and further surgery. An alternative to these are some over the counter products such as cream containing vitamin E which can moisturise the scar tissue and assist in lightening the wound. Often times cosmetic treatments are the most effective and provide the fastest results.

To reduce mole scars naturally, you should keep the wound clean, bandaged and hydrated through the use of over the counter ointments such as petroleum jelly. This bandage should be changed once or twice a week depending on the size and location of the scar.

Individuals should refrain from using alcohol on wound scars due to the fact it can interfere with the healing process. After the wound has healed, continue to massage it in order to increase blood flow to the area. Gently massaging the scar can promote healing and lead to the area becoming less stiff in the time after the procedure.

How long does it take for mole scars to fade?

It can take years for a mole scar to fade completely, however with the use of a cosmetic procedure this process can be sped up. Light therapy sessions at regular intervals can reduce the size of the mole scar within months and provide reliable, long lasting results for all individuals.

At the Cadogan Clinic we are able to help individuals recover quickly from mole removal treatment and ensure patients make a swift recovery. For more information or to address any queries or concerns, get in touch with us via the contact form on our website.

Dermatology

Mole Removal

Remove moles and pigmented lesions for your skin's safety with targeted mole removal.

Can a mole grow back after excision?

A mole is very unlikely to grow back after excision assuming the lesion is completely surgically excised and the margins were confirmed to be clear. However if you see it starting to return, you should contact your dermatologist immediately. It is important to note the hair in the area the mole once was may begin to return.

How can the Cadogan Clinic help me with mole removal / mole scar removal?

At the Cadogan clinic we take pride in our ability to help patients with both mole removal and the removal of mole scars. We offer comprehensive advice surrounding moles and the actions you can take to ensure they are removed for good and the scar healed up in due course. For more information, get in touch with us via the contact form on our website where a specialist will be able to assist you.

Treatments mentioned in this article

Mole & Skin Cancer

Mole Removal

Remove moles and pigmented lesions for your skin's safety with targeted mole removal.

Mole & Skin Cancer

Mole Check

Professional mole mapping identifies all pigmented moles on your body for your peace of mind.

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