Surgical & General Dermatology
Mole Removal in Tampa
Whether you have a mole that's changing, irritating, or simply bothering you cosmetically, Dr. Sergay provides expert evaluation and precise surgical removal — with pathology review for every specimen to ensure your peace of mind.
Expert Evaluation First
Mole Evaluation & Removal
Not every mole needs to be removed — and not every mole that looks benign is safe to ignore. Dr. Sergay uses dermoscopy to evaluate moles at a level of detail invisible to the naked eye, helping distinguish truly benign lesions from those that warrant removal and pathology.
When removal is appropriate, the method is chosen based on the lesion type, location, and whether a pathology specimen is needed. Every removed mole is sent for histological analysis — you'll receive a pathology report confirming the diagnosis. This is a critical step that's sometimes skipped at medspa or non-dermatology settings.
Important: Use the ABCDE rule — Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving — to identify moles that need prompt evaluation. See also our Skin Cancer page.
Changing or Suspicious
Moles that are asymmetric, have irregular borders, multiple colors, or are growing should be evaluated promptly.
Irritation or Discomfort
Moles that catch on clothing, jewelry, or are in locations that cause repeated friction or bleeding.
Cosmetic Concerns
Raised, prominent, or facially-located moles that affect your appearance or confidence.
Atypical / Dysplastic Nevi
Atypical moles with unusual features that warrant removal and pathology to rule out early melanoma.
Techniques
Removal Methods & What to Expect
The right removal technique depends on the mole type, size, and location. Dr. Sergay selects the approach that optimizes both the diagnostic specimen and the cosmetic outcome.
Shave Excision
A curved blade is used to shave a raised mole flush with or just below the skin surface. Ideal for benign, raised moles in cosmetically sensitive areas. Leaves a flat, often barely visible mark. Specimen is sent for pathology.
Surgical Excision
The mole and a margin of surrounding skin are removed and the wound closed with sutures. Used for flat, atypical, or suspicious moles where complete removal with clear margins is required. Provides the definitive pathology specimen.
Punch Biopsy
A circular punch tool removes the mole and a small surrounding margin in one clean specimen. Useful for small, flat, or pigmented lesions where a complete histological cross-section is needed for accurate diagnosis.
The Removal Process
Evaluation & Dermoscopy
Dr. Sergay examines the mole with a dermatoscope and discusses whether removal is warranted and which method is appropriate.
Local Anesthesia
The area is numbed with a small injection of lidocaine. The procedure itself is completely painless.
Removal
The mole is removed using the selected technique. Most procedures take under 15 minutes.
Pathology
The specimen is sent to a dermatopathologist. Results are typically available within 1–2 weeks.
Wound Care & Follow-Up
Simple wound care instructions are provided. Sutures (if used) are removed at a follow-up visit. You'll receive your pathology results.
Common Questions
Mole Removal FAQ
Schedule Evaluation
Have a Mole You Want Checked or Removed?
Don't wait on a mole that's changing or bothering you. Dr. Sergay will evaluate it thoroughly and, if removal is appropriate, can often perform it the same day.