Shave Removal Quick Facts

Treatment type: Minimally invasive lesion removal

Areas treated: Face and body

Anesthesia: Local numbing for comfort

Recovery time: Typically 1–2 weeks

Results: Flatter, smoother skin with reduced visibility of raised lesions

Shave removal is a simple, dermatologist-performed procedure designed to flatten raised moles, keratoses, or benign growths.

Unlike excision, which involves cutting deeper into the skin and closing with stitches, shave removal carefully removes only the raised portion at the surface. This approach often results in faster healing, less downtime, and a smoother cosmetic outcome. At FACET Dermatology, we use this technique when it is the safest and most effective choice for achieving your desired results.

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What Is Shave Removal?

Shave removal is a minor surgical technique used to remove raised, benign skin lesions. Using a fine surgical blade, the lesion is shaved down flush with the skin’s surface, leaving the area smoother while avoiding deep incisions. It is best suited for patients whose goal is to improve appearance and comfort without the need for stitches or more invasive surgery.

How it works

After numbing the area with local anesthesia, the dermatologist gently shaves the raised lesion with a flat surgical blade. For elective cosmetic cases, a light chemical peel may also be applied afterward to blend the treated area and reduce pigment changes. Healing typically occurs within one to two weeks, leaving a smoother and less noticeable result.

What Does Shave Removal Treat?

Shave removal is most effective for raised, benign skin lesions where flattening the surface achieves the cosmetic goal. It is not recommended when complete removal is medically necessary, such as with suspicious moles or skin cancers.

Conditions treated include:

  • Raised benign moles
  • Seborrheic keratoses
  • Skin tags
  • Other small, raised growths
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Shave Removal vs. Excision

Which is Right for You?

Shave Removal

Excision

Minimally invasive — no stitches required

Minor surgical procedure with sutures

Removes raised portion flush with skin surface

Removes entire lesion, including root

Best for benign raised lesions (e.g., moles, keratoses, skin tags)

Recommended for suspicious, cancerous, or deep lesions

Faster healing (1–2 weeks) with minimal downtime

Slightly longer healing time due to sutures

Lower risk of prominent scarring

Higher risk of scarring but ensures complete removal

Cosmetic focus: smooths contour and reduces visibility

Medical focus: ensures safety and full removal

REAL PATIENT RESULTS

REAL PATIENT RESULTS

Smoother Skin, Less Visible Lesions

With shave removal, raised growths can be reduced quickly and effectively. The result is a smoother surface, less irritation, and improved cosmetic appearance with minimal downtime.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are shave removal procedures safe?

Yes. When performed by a dermatologist, shave removals are a safe and effective procedure for benign skin lesions.

Will my lesion come back?

Because shave removals do not always remove the root of the lesion, regrowth is possible. In these cases, excision may be recommended.

Do shave removals leave a scar?

Any skin procedure can leave a mark, but shave removal typically heals with a flatter, less noticeable scar than deeper excision.

How long does healing take?

Most patients heal within 1–2 weeks, with mild redness or scabbing that fades over time.

Is shave removal suitable for all skin types?

Yes. At FACET Dermatology, we use strategies to minimize risks such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), especially for patients with darker skin tones.

How do I know if I need shave removal or excision?

Your dermatologist will assess your lesion. Shave removals are ideal for benign raised growths, while excision is recommended when complete removal or pathology testing is required.