Mole Removal: Shave vs. Full Excision — Which Is Right?

Cited Research

Mole removal is straightforward — but the technique should match the lesion. Every removed mole is sent for pathology, regardless of why it was removed.

Shave removal

Best for raised, benign-appearing lesions. Heals without sutures, leaves a flat pink scar that fades over months. Not appropriate for any lesion suspicious for melanoma.

Full-thickness excision

Required for atypical or suspicious moles, and preferred for flat pigmented moles where complete removal is the goal. Sutured closure, fine linear scar.

References & Further Reading

This article is general information about procedures we perform. It is not medical advice and does not replace an assessment by a physician who has examined you. Individual results, risks and recovery vary.