Surgical & General Dermatology
Mole Removal and Mole Checks 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.
Your Dermatologist
About Amanda Sergay, MD
Board Certified
American Board of Dermatology
Specialties
Medical · Surgical · Cosmetic
Location
South Tampa, FL
Board-Certified Dermatologist · Medical · Surgical · Cosmetic
Amanda Sergay, MD is a board-certified dermatologist committed to excellence in comprehensive dermatological care. Originally from the Tampa area, Dr. Sergay received her undergraduate degree from Emory University and earned her medical degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
She completed her residency in dermatology at Mount Sinai St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York City, where she served as Chief Resident during her final year. Her practice encompasses medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, treating both adults and children.
Dr. Sergay has been named to Tampa Magazine's Top Docs Edition in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, and was twice named to New York Magazine's New York Rising Star list.
Awards & Recognition
Tampa Magazine Top Docs
20192020202120222023202420252026Super Doctors
Emory University
Undergraduate
Univ. of Miami Miller
Medical Degree
Mount Sinai NYC
Residency · Chief Resident
Patient Reviews
What Our Patients Say
Real Google reviews from patients who trust Dr. Sergay with their skin health.
“Dr. Sergay is personable, professional, and is a knowledgeable clinician. She listens well and makes you part of the process. I have seen her for two years for medical and aesthetic issues. I have been very satisfied with her care and have referred her to family and friends.”
Ariadne Rodriguez
6 reviews
“After what felt like a never-ending search for the right doctor to help with my skin irritations, I finally found Dr. Sergay — and what a blessing! She's not only incredibly genuine, but she also took the time to explain everything in detail so I fully understood both my issue and the solution. It's easy to see why she's made such a respected name for herself here and in New York.”
Christin Hillis
13 reviews · 2 photos
“Wonderful office, the Dr. listened to all my concerns and addressed each with good communication and ideas. My new Derm.”
Carol Gould
Local Guide · 21 reviews · 1 photo
“Now this is a medical practice done right! I love how they don't play the insurance game and are a privately owned practice. This allows them to provide top notch care and a patient experience that is hard to find anywhere else. Dr. Sergay is extremely thorough during her exams and so kind. Trust her with your care!”
Victoria Hansen
Local Guide · 123 reviews · 144 photos
“First time appointment — Dr. Sergay was amazing. Very easy to talk to and she told me the choices I had and got the procedure done. Highly recommend.”
Darren Finebloom
Local Guide · 21 reviews
“Dr Sergay is wonderful. She's deeply knowledgeable about her field, and also has a wonderful, attentive manner. She and her staff are so caring and responsive. I highly recommend.”
Dana Whiting
3 reviews
Common Questions
Mole Removal FAQ
The only discomfort is the initial lidocaine injection to numb the area — a brief sting lasting a few seconds. The removal itself is completely painless. Most patients are surprised at how quick and easy the procedure is.
Any skin procedure leaves some mark, but Dr. Sergay uses techniques that minimize scarring. Shave excisions typically leave a flat, often barely visible pink mark that fades over months. Sutured excisions leave a fine linear scar. Location and skin type also affect healing.
Moles can look benign clinically but contain atypical or even malignant cells microscopically — and vice versa. Sending every specimen for pathological analysis is the standard of care in dermatology. It protects you and ensures the diagnosis is definitive, not assumed.
Yes, in most cases. Dr. Sergay can evaluate and remove multiple moles in a single appointment, which is more efficient for you. The number removed depends on location, technique required, and how long the session needs to run.
If a mole recurs after removal, it should be re-evaluated. Sometimes a few pigmented cells remain and can re-pigment — this is more common with shave excisions. Recurrence after surgical excision is less common and may warrant repeat excision with wider margins depending on the original pathology.
At a board-certified dermatology practice, every removed lesion is evaluated under a microscope by a dermatopathologist. Medspas typically do not send specimens for pathology, which means a concerning lesion can go undiagnosed. Dr. Sergay also performs a full skin evaluation to assess all moles in context.
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.