Should You See a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon for Mole Removal?

Should I go directly to a plastic surgery department for mole removal?

Hello Dr.
Cheng, I have a protruding mole that is about 0.5 cm wide.
After undergoing laser treatment at Huaji Hospital, it still grew back, although the color is lighter and the size remains the same.
The doctor mentioned that if the mole grows back, it indicates regenerative capability and suggested surgical removal instead.
Unfortunately, the mole did grow back, and I consulted with the dermatology department at Chengda Hospital.
However, the doctor mentioned that surgical removal could leave a linear scar of about 2 cm, which made me hesitant as I am concerned that the scar might look unattractive.
Should I consider consulting a plastic surgeon for a mole removal that would be more aesthetically pleasing and leave no trace?

jogy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/02/20

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

Hello! Every incision leaves a mark, but this mark will gradually fade over time and become less noticeable, unless there is an infection, dehiscence, or a predisposition to keloid formation, in which case the scar will be more prominent.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Li-Chen, Department of Dermatology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2004/02/20

More Info

When it comes to mole removal, the decision between seeing a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon can be influenced by several factors, including the nature of the mole, your personal preferences, and the desired outcome.
Moles, or nevi, can vary in size, shape, and color, and while many are benign, some may require further evaluation or removal due to concerns about skin cancer. If you have a mole that is raised, as you described, and it has shown signs of regrowth after laser treatment, it is essential to consult a qualified medical professional for a thorough assessment.
Dermatologists are specialists in skin conditions and are well-equipped to evaluate moles for any signs of malignancy. They can perform a biopsy if necessary and recommend the best course of action. If the mole is determined to be benign but bothersome, a dermatologist can also perform excisional surgery to remove it. This procedure typically involves cutting out the mole along with a margin of surrounding skin, which can result in a linear scar. The extent of the scar depends on the size of the mole and the technique used.

On the other hand, plastic surgeons specialize in cosmetic procedures and may offer techniques that minimize scarring. If your primary concern is the cosmetic outcome and you are worried about the appearance of scars, a plastic surgeon may be a better option. They can use advanced techniques such as flap surgery or skin grafting to reduce the visibility of scars. Additionally, they may offer options like laser treatments or other cosmetic procedures post-removal to further enhance the appearance of the skin.

It is important to note that while plastic surgeons can provide aesthetically pleasing results, they may not always have the same level of expertise in diagnosing skin conditions as dermatologists. Therefore, if there is any concern about the mole being potentially cancerous, it is advisable to start with a dermatologist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and, if necessary, refer you to a plastic surgeon for cosmetic removal after ensuring that the mole is not a health risk.

In your case, since the mole has regrown and you have concerns about scarring, it would be prudent to first consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation. If the mole is benign and you decide to proceed with removal, you can then discuss your options with a plastic surgeon to find the best approach that balances both safety and cosmetic results.

In summary, the choice between a dermatologist and a plastic surgeon for mole removal should be based on the mole's characteristics, your health concerns, and your aesthetic goals. Starting with a dermatologist for evaluation is a wise first step, and they can guide you on the best course of action based on your specific situation.

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