Just as the microscopic moles we are born with can develop into visible moles, a few cells left behind after a mole removal can grow into a full-sized mole again. Moles are more likely to grow back if you have a shave excision, as the procedure won't be attempting to remove the entire mole.

What are the chances of a mole growing back?

Laser removal of a mole is most commonly used when moles are flat and difficult to shave or cut out. In this procedure, the laser uses light to break up the pigment of the mole. Moles are also very unlikely to grow back with this way of removal.

Do moles usually grow back?

If a common mole is removed completely, it should not grow back. However, some residents may experience the regrowth of a mole if some of the mole cells were left behind after the mole removal procedure. But a mole that grows back does not mean it is cancerous. To avoid regrowth, be sure to talk to Dr.