Why did my mole grow back after excision?

Question

Hi doctor,

About a year ago, I had a nevus excision. Neither shaving nor laser, it was total excision. But two days ago, I realized that the nevus had come back there along the edges of the scar, the same shape as the scar.

The biopsy report of the first one is compound nevus, and there is nothing abnormal. There is no note as dysplastic or something like that.

I visited my dermatologist today, and he said we will follow it for the next 3 months. I have been becoming paranoid. I need some advice.

Please see the pictures of the old and new ones.

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query.

I understand your complaint and have gone through the photos (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

Any nevus is a collection of melanocytes that can multiply rapidly. Hence, even if a small section is left, it can potentially regrow. You can go for elliptical excision with at least 5 mm margin and then laser sessions to blow out the remainder.

I hope it helps.

Revert in case of any doubts.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

Looks like it has come back, whether just like before or maybe less than that. As for now, we have to wait and see. Once it has reached full size, we can think about elliptical incision and all that.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Revert in case of any doubts.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

Only a biopsy can establish the degree of dysplasia, but it is always better to be safe than take chances. Hence, excision is my choice of treatment for any patient. Your case was of a compound nevus where the cells are both in dermis and epidermis.

Hence, if some deeper tissue is left in the dermis, then chances are there for recurrence. The safest and best alternative is an elliptical excision or a punch biopsy up to the subcutaneous fat, including 2 to 3 mm of normal tissue. I always get good results with it.

I hope it helps.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.