When a raised mole is removed using the shave technique, the site undergoes a predictable healing process that transforms a superficial wound into a flat, subtle mark. Understanding this progression helps manage expectations during recovery. Shave excision is typically used for moles that protrude above the skin’s surface but do not extend deep into the dermis. This minimally invasive procedure results in a visual transformation from an open wound to a healed scar, which occurs in distinct phases.
The Shave Excision Procedure
Shave excision is a quick, outpatient procedure performed after the area is numbed with a local anesthetic. The technique involves using a sharp surgical blade, such as a scalpel or specialized razor, to slice the raised mole horizontally at or just below the surrounding skin surface. This method removes the lesion while causing minimal disruption to deeper skin layers. Because the cut is superficial and parallel to the skin, this type of removal does not require sutures to close the wound. The goal is to flatten the lesion, leaving a superficial wound that heals naturally from the bottom up.
Appearance Immediately After Removal
Immediately after the mole is shaved off, the wound site looks raw, similar to a fresh scrape. The surface appears moist and ranges from bright pink to red, reflecting the exposed layer of the dermis. If the mole was elevated, the site may be slightly depressed or lower than the surrounding skin level. To control minor bleeding, a doctor may apply a chemical agent like aluminum chloride or use an electrosurgical device for cauterization. This process can leave a dark, temporary ring or discoloration around the wound’s perimeter.
How the Site Looks During Healing
The initial healing phase begins quickly, with a protective layer forming over the raw wound within the first few days. This layer evolves into a dark brown or black scab, which is a normal part of the body’s repair process. The scab acts as a natural barrier and should not be picked or forcibly removed, as this delays healing and increases the risk of scarring. The wound is considered closed when the scab naturally detaches, usually between one and three weeks after the procedure, revealing new skin beneath. Mild redness, slight tenderness, or itching are common during this period; however, signs of infection such as spreading redness, increased warmth, throbbing pain, or thick, yellowish pus require medical attention.
The Final Long-Term Appearance
Once the scab has fallen off, the newly exposed skin appears pink or reddish, forming a temporary scar that matures over time. The resulting long-term mark is a flat scar, which is generally much less noticeable than the raised mole it replaced. The mature scar should be flat and smooth, though it may occasionally be slightly indented depending on the depth of the initial shave. Pigment changes are common compared to the surrounding skin, manifesting as hypopigmentation (lighter or whiter) or hyperpigmentation (darker due to excess melanin). This final maturation process, where the scar flattens and the color blends, can take several months up to a full year.