atypical mole

I had an atypical mole removed about 18 months ago by a shave .  It returned looking very normal - small and brown.  It changed slightly last week.  Can atypical moles change?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It is very common for the moles to regrow at the excision site shortly after removal or years later.  The mole cells below the cut surface of the removal site can also cause re-pigmentation of the removal site to a shade much darker than that of the removed mole. This is more common in young and after shave excision of the mole. For this excision of moles with the skin underlying them is sometimes recommended.  This technique is often referred to as elliptical mole excision.

You can discuss this treatment option with your dermatologist. Also look out for any changes in the mole like changes in the mole's/mark’s color, height, size or shape. Melanoma has an irregular border, is asymmetrical,uneven color and increasing in size.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Alicia86]

Hi ! On February I took off 2 moles on my back, one came back with severe dysplasia so my sergeon re-excision  and the pathology results came back free and clear margins, the other one came back as compound dysplastic nevus extending to all the margins, but after a month the mole start coming back in irregular shape and it looks black, so I went to the dermatologist and she said the mole was bengin and it happen on shave biopsy, anyone had same problem or know about those things,? Should I worry, should I go to a surgeon and and take it off the rest of it ? Any one any idea please ?

[Joegun88]

I'm in the same situation. I had a mole shaved about 5 years ago and it came back benign. It then grew back and has slowly over the years gotten darker. I am getting it removed completely and am really worried because the coloring does not look right. My dermatologist said it looked worrisome and excision was necessary.