Written and medically reviewed by: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD, General SurgeryLast updated:
Soft Tissue Masses — Surgical Nevus Evaluation
Suspicious pigmented lesions — with dermatology
This is not cosmetic mole removal. It covers pigmented lesions with atypical features or malignancy concern that general surgery may excise after dermatology assessment. Not every nevus is melanoma; changing, bleeding, or ABCDE-suspicious lesions need review.
Outcomes of any surgical or interventional procedure may vary from person to person. Please seek a detailed consultation with your physician before any procedure.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Figure summary
This educational figure shows: Nevus.
Key points
- Key note inside
When to worry
Asymmetry, irregular borders, color change, diameter over 6 mm, or evolution (ABCDE) raise concern. Itching, bleeding, or rapid growth needs prompt evaluation.
Dermatology and biopsy
Dermoscopy is first line. Punch or excisional biopsy establishes pathology. General surgery often joins after diagnosis or for wide excision.
Excision principles
Oncologic margins take priority over cosmesis when malignancy is suspected. Pathology drives staging and next steps.
Frequently asked questions
Is every mole cancer?
No — but new or changing lesions in adults should not be dismissed as benign by appearance alone.
More chapters in this hub
Lipoma
Benign fatty masses — when to observe or excise
Skin Cysts
Epidermoid and pilar cysts — inflammation, infection, and excision
General Diagnosis
Lipoma and skin cysts — exam, ultrasound, MRI
General Treatment
Lipoma and skin cysts — observation and excision
Nevus Diagnosis
Dermoscopy, biopsy, and pathology pathway
Nevus Treatment
Excision, wide local excision, and follow-up
Liposarcoma
Deep fatty malignancy — not a lipoma
Liposarcoma Diagnosis
MRI, biopsy, and tumor board
Liposarcoma Treatment
Wide excision, radiotherapy, and surveillance
Retroperitoneal Masses
Deep abdominal tumors — imaging and resection
Appointment / info
This page is for education. It is not medical advice and does not replace a visit with your physician.
Medical editor: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD · Last medically reviewed: August 2026 · English patient-education chapter.