Effective Mole Removal: Laser vs. Excision for Minimal Scarring

I want to remove a mole..?

Dear Dr.
Cheng, I have a small but raised mole on my face that I would like to remove because it is somewhat bothersome.
Which method is less likely to leave a scar, laser treatment or excision? How long does it take for the wound to heal? What are the costs involved? Additionally, I have a deeper mole on my back that is approximately one centimeter in diameter, and I would also like to remove that.
I would appreciate your advice.
Thank you!

Kate, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/16

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

The treatment of moles depends on their size, location, depth, and whether they are raised or not.
Even when using lasers, the choice of laser type is determined by these factors.
Some treatments may leave scars while others may not.
A personal consultation is necessary to determine the appropriate method for mole removal.
The treatment options, costs, and recovery times will vary accordingly.

Reply Date: 2000/11/16

More Info

When it comes to mole removal, both laser treatment and surgical excision are viable options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, particularly concerning scarring, recovery time, and cost.
Laser Mole Removal:
Laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure that uses focused light beams to break down the pigment in the mole. This method is generally less invasive than excision and can result in minimal scarring, especially for smaller, superficial moles. The recovery time is typically quick, with most patients experiencing only minor redness or swelling that resolves within a few days. However, laser treatment may not be suitable for all types of moles, particularly those that are deeper or have irregular borders, as it may not completely remove the mole and could lead to regrowth.

Surgical Excision:
Surgical excision involves cutting out the mole along with a margin of surrounding skin. This method is often recommended for larger or deeper moles, as it allows for complete removal and a definitive diagnosis if the mole is suspicious for skin cancer. While excision can result in more noticeable scarring compared to laser treatment, skilled surgeons can minimize scars through careful technique and placement. The recovery time for excision is generally longer, with stitches needing to be removed after about a week, and the area may take several weeks to fully heal.

Scarring Considerations:
Scarring is a significant concern for many patients. With laser treatment, the risk of scarring is lower, but it is not entirely eliminated. The healing process can vary from person to person, and factors such as skin type, mole size, and location can influence the outcome. Surgical excision, while potentially leaving a more visible scar, can be more effective for complete removal, which may ultimately lead to a better cosmetic result if the mole is large or deep.

Cost:
The cost of mole removal can vary widely based on the method used, the location of the procedure, and the healthcare provider. Laser treatments may be less expensive for small moles, while surgical excision could be more costly due to the need for anesthesia and the surgical setting. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to get a precise estimate based on your specific situation.

Recommendations:
For your small, raised mole on the face, laser removal might be a suitable option if it is superficial and not suspicious for malignancy. However, if there are any concerns regarding its nature, surgical excision would be the safer choice to ensure complete removal and proper evaluation. For the larger mole on your back, surgical excision is likely the best approach, as it allows for thorough removal and minimizes the risk of regrowth.

In conclusion, both laser and excision methods have their pros and cons regarding scarring and recovery. It is crucial to discuss your options with a qualified dermatologist or surgeon who can assess your specific moles and recommend the best approach tailored to your needs. They will also provide guidance on post-procedure care to optimize healing and minimize scarring.

Similar Q&A

Effective Methods for Removing Moles: Laser vs. Chemical Peels

The general methods for removing moles include surgical excision, laser treatment, and chemical peels. Between laser treatment and chemical peels, laser treatment is generally considered more effective for mole removal. After treatment, the healing time for the wound typically ...

Dr. Jin Lianchun reply Dermatology
Hello, Miss: 1. The treatment of moles must first be diagnosed by a physician to determine if they are benign or malignant. 2. If they are benign, the treatment approach will depend on the size of the mole: a. Large moles, approximately 1 cm or larger, require surgical int...

How to Safely Remove Irregular Moles: Laser vs. Surgical Options

Hello: I have a mole on my face that is approximately 0.4mm, slightly raised, and irregularly shaped. I have heard that it can be removed using laser treatment or through surgical excision. I would like to know if your hospital can assist me with this?

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
Hello: If the mole is raised, surgical removal may be preferable. It is ideal to have the surgery performed by a plastic surgeon. If you would like to contact our clinic, please call (03) 5326151-2111 for the cosmetic center and request an appointment with Dr. Chou Hung-Chang in ...

Effective Mole Removal: Laser vs. Surgical Options Explained

I have had many laser treatments for my mole, but they haven't worked. Do you perform mole excision?

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
In general, larger protruding moles can be surgically removed. The out-of-pocket cost is approximately NT$3,000 to NT$5,000. You can consult at our hospital's plastic and cosmetic surgery outpatient clinic.

Comparing Laser Mole Removal: Plastic Surgery vs Dermatology

I would like to ask, the service of laser mole removal is available in both plastic surgery and dermatology. Is there a difference in effectiveness? Will the costs also vary? Thank you.

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery
Laser mole removal is effective regardless of the location, while manual removal by a plastic surgeon can be quite expensive, but of course, the results are often better.