Lump Removal
Lumps, scientifically known as subcutaneous skin growths, are formations that can be seen or felt under the skin; they can have a “bulging” look or a firm feel. The skin is often intact on the area and of normal color. Lumps can be caused by many reasons, and their likability depends on their location.
The most typical lumps are lipomas and atheromas. In the cases of infections, it is common to possibly have temporarily enlarged lymph nodes.
Bruises and scars resulting from injuries can feel like lumps, and lumps related to the musculoskeletal system, such as ganglion cysts, are very common as well. More rare causes are malignant tumors.
When Should You Seek Treatment for Lumps?
Lumps should be checked if they don’t result from injuries. At a doctor’s appointment, the lump is inspected, and the doctor concludes the most probable diagnoses based on the location, features, and growth rate. Sometimes additional ultrasound research or other imaging are needed.
Lumps that have emerged and grown rapidly (within weeks or months) should be checked during the next few weeks. Lumps should be checked if their diameter is over 5 cm as well.
The situation requires a faster (even emergency room) evaluation if symptoms of infections, such as pain or redness, occur in the area.
Lumps located in female breasts must always be inspected.
How Are Lumps Treated?
Benign lipomas and atheromas can be treated with small, local procedures, or we can simply continue to observe them.
With any other lump, the doctor evaluates the situation and clearly explains the following inspections or procedures to you.
More Information
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A benign superficial lump can be removed under local anesthesia.
Before the procedure, the area is disinfected. The numbing agent is injected with a needle into the surrounding area, and once the area is numb, the whole lump is removed at once. To confirm the diagnosis, a pathologist often inspects the removed lump.
The procedure always leaves a scar on the skin. Depending on the situation, the lump, and the anatomical location, the wound is closed either with dissolving or removable stitches. Dressings are placed over the wound.
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The wound typically heals within 1–2 weeks. If removable stitches are used, the timing of their removal is determined individually.
The healing of the scar depends on, besides the procedure, the skin’s properties and the location of the subcutaneous skin growth. The look of the scar can be improved with supporting tape and later with silicone strips or gel.
The optimal aesthetic of surgical scars can also be worked on with laser treatments. Currently, it is recommended that laser treatment be done soon after the procedure, even after just one month.
