MB BCh · FRCS — Consultant General, Colorectal & Gastrointestinal Surgeon

Nuffield Health · The Vale & Cardiff Bay

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Excision of Skin Lumps and Bumps

Understanding skin lumps and bumps what they are and how they are removed.

OVERVIEW

What are skin lumps and bumps?

Skin lumps and bumps encompass a wide range of common, usually harmless growths that develop within or just beneath the surface of the skin, including sebaceous cysts, lipomas, skin tags and similar benign lesions. Cysts typically form when a skin gland becomes blocked, lipomas develop from a build-up of fatty tissue beneath the skin, and skin tags tend to arise where skin repeatedly rubs against itself or clothing. Most of these lumps grow slowly over months or years, cause little more than mild irritation or cosmetic concern, and carry no significant health risk. Even so, many patients choose to have them removed, whether for comfort, appearance, or simply for peace of mind, and removal also allows the tissue to be examined if there is ever any uncertainty about the nature of a particular lump. Any lump that changes noticeably in size, shape, colour or texture, or that becomes painful, should always be assessed promptly to rule out anything requiring further attention.

Symptoms to look out for

Causes & risk factors

TREATMENT OPTIONS

How skin lumps can be treated

01

Monitoring

Small, stable lumps causing no concern may simply be observed.

02

Local Excision

Most lumps are removed under local anaesthetic as a quick day case.

03

Histology & Follow-Up

Removed tissue can be examined to confirm the diagnosis where needed.

When should you seek advice?

A lump that grows quickly, changes appearance or becomes painful should be assessed. Mr Woodward offers assessment within 48 hours.

Common questions about skin lumps and bumps

Are skin lumps dangerous?

The vast majority of skin lumps are entirely harmless, though any lump that changes in size, shape or colour should be checked.

Removal is usually done under local anaesthetic and is generally well tolerated, with only mild discomfort during recovery.

Complete removal usually prevents recurrence, though certain lumps such as cysts can occasionally return if not fully removed.