Plastic surgery restores form and function through reconstructive procedures, cosmetic enhancements, and body contouring.
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The first two weeks are the acute healing phase. For shave removals, a scab or crust will form. It is vital not to pick at this scab, as premature removal can increase scarring. The area will look red and raw initially.
For excisions with stitches, the wound edge should look pink and closed. Sutures on the face are typically removed in 5 to 7 days to prevent “track marks.” Sutures on the body remain in place for 10 to 14 days because the skin heals more slowly and is under greater tension.
Once the wound is closed, the scar remodeling phase begins and lasts up to a year. The scar will initially be red or pink due to new blood vessels (angiogenesis). Over months, it will fade to white or pale pink.
During this time, collagen is being reorganized. The scar may feel firm or bumpy initially, but it will soften over time. Patients must be patient; the appearance at 3 weeks is not the final result.
Active scar management significantly improves the outcome. Silicone gel or silicone sheets are the gold standard. They provide occlusion and hydration, which signals the fibroblasts to dial down collagen production, preventing raised scars.
Massage is also beneficial once the wound is healed (usually after 3 to 4 weeks). Gentle circular massage helps break up scar adhesions and ensures the skin glides smoothly over the underlying tissue.
Sun protection is critical for the fresh scar. UV radiation causes hyperpigmentation, turning the scar dark brown. This discoloration can be permanent.
Patients should keep the scar covered with tape or clothing for the first few months. Once exposed, a high SPF sunscreen (30-50+) containing zinc oxide should be applied directly to the scar every day for at least a year.
About 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure, the pathology report will arrive. The doctor will review this with the patient. “Benign nevus” means it was a normal mole, and no further treatment is needed.
“Dysplastic nevus” means the mole was atypical. Depending on the degree of atypia and the margins, the doctor might recommend a wider excision to ensure safety. “Melanoma” requires immediate oncological referral and further surgery.
Even with successful removal, there is a small risk of recurrence, especially with shave techniques. “Nevus pseudo-recurrence” can look like pigment returning to the scar. This is usually benign but can be alarming.
Patients should monitor the site. If they see pigment growing back, a lump forming, or the scar changing significantly, they should return to the dermatologist. Often, this recurrent pigment can be easily treated.
Infections are rare but possible. Signs include increasing redness that spreads, heat, throbbing pain, or yellow pus. This typically happens 3 to 5 days post op.
If suspected, the patient should contact the office. Oral antibiotics are usually effective. Keeping the wound clean and covered significantly reduces this risk.
Some patients are prone to hypertrophic (raised) scars or keloids. If the scar begins to itch, increase in size, or turn very red after a few weeks, early intervention is key.
Intralesional steroid injections (cortisone) can be used to flatten the scar and reduce itching. Silicone sheeting is also intensified. Treating these early prevents them from becoming permanent hard lumps.
Removing a mole is often just one part of a broader skin health strategy. Patients with many moles or a history of atypical nevi should commit to regular whole body skin exams (every 6 to 12 months).
Adopting a “skin smart” lifestyle involves daily sunscreen, protective clothing, and self-awareness. The removal of one mole does not prevent others from developing or changing.
If a scar remains visible or has a poor texture after fully healing (6 to 12 months), laser resurfacing can be considered. Fractional lasers can drill microscopic holes in the scar to stimulate new, healthy collagen and blend the texture.
Vascular lasers (PDL or IPL) can treat persistent redness. These finishing touches help achieve the “socially invisible” goal for facial scars.
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This means the cut went through the mole cells, leaving some behind. If the mole is benign, no further action is usually needed. If it were dysplastic or cancerous, you would need a second minor procedure to remove a bit more tissue and clear the rest.
Redness is a regular part of healing. It means there is increased blood flow bringing nutrients to repair the skin. It will fade on its own, but it can take several months.
You should not apply makeup directly to an open wound or to fresh stitches. Wait until the skin has fully healed over (usually 10 to 14 days) before applying makeup to conceal the redness.
Current research suggests Vitamin E oil does not significantly help scars and can sometimes cause contact dermatitis (a rash). Silicone gel is clinically proven to be more effective.
It refers to any mole that stands out as different from your other moles. If most of your moles are small and brown, but you have one that is large and red, that is the ugly duckling and should be checked.
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