Dysplastic Nevi

I have quite a few moles (some flat, some raised) all of my life and at least 15 have been removed from my back/chest/butt. Fortunately, I do not have skin cancer but I do have dysplastic nevi. I feel very conscientious and insecure with my body and now I'm left with several (15) scars from the biopsies. I want to know if there is a treatment to improve the appearance of these scars, such as laser tx? I know that I need to have at least 5 more removed in the near future and wanted to know what options are available to reduce to appearance of the scar. Like I said, I have several scars that are small but noticable and I'm very uncomfortable wearing a bikini in the summer because of the scars.

I appreciate your input/feedback on this subject. Thank you in advance for your time.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

There isn't that much available to treat scars, but the pulsed dye laser can be helpful without risking worse scarring.

I will say this, though: I am skeptical that you need so many moles removed.  Dysplastic is not synonymous with pre-cancerous; it's a lot more ambiguous than that.  Before you have another 5 moles lopped off, I advise you to get another opinion fro a doctor who will both look at you but review your record and the previous pathology reports and slides.  Even if you need more biopsies, there are techniques like shave biopsy that leave far smaller scars.

I'm not suggesting that you've been improperly treated, but I think another opinion in matters like this is a good idea, if only to get a different perspective.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff