LAM FACIAL PLASTICS

Hi Dr. Lam,

I have had this mole above my upper lip ever since I could remember. However, I accidentally scratched it when I was in fifth grade (I am 25 now), and it has gotten bigger, maybe twice its original size. It is now around 5mm in diameter. I asked my dermatologist about removing it, and he suggested the shave excision procedure. Although I was told I wouldn't get a scar, I am still terrified of the idea. I have attached a picture, and your opinion would mean a lot. Thank you

you can try the shave technique which would limit the risk of a "scar" but it may not be that effective as you will miss some cells below the skin. if that fails, then you can go for an excision, which is more definitive but would risk a "scar" and obviously if you read my mole forum you can see that a good mole removal is a bit involved to do it right including good after care.
best,
s.

If the mole grows back after the shave excision, does it usually grow back smaller, larger, or back to its original size? Are there methods of reducing the size of the mole? Honestly, I wouldn't mind the mole so much if it were half its size.

it should grow back smaller or close to the same size. it would be unusual to be bigger.