Scarring

Biopsy and excision procedures for suspected skin cancers frequently cause scarring. Other adverse effects include bleeding, bruising, pain and infection. In cases where your doctor believes your lesion is most likely not skin cancer, spectroscopy can provide further evidence that the lesion is harmless. This often means that no biopsy or surgical excision procedure is required.

Abnormal scars may be raised, hard and discoloured, or thin and soft. They are common after skin procedures, but can usually be treated to improve their appearance and associated discomfort.

Mole removal usually leaves a scar. The extent of the scarring depends on the size and location of the mole and the method used to remove it.

A mole can come back after removal, usually if some mole tissue is left in place during the mole removal procedure. This can occur for various reasons, such as insufficient treatment width, depth or duration.