Lumps, Bumps, & Growths

There are a variety of benign skin lesions that can present as either lumps, bumps or growths on the skin. Common growths include:

Skin Tags: Present as small growths or protrusions of the skin on areas with friction such as the neck, underarms, groin, and under the breasts. Skin tags are thought to be caused by friction or rubbing of the skin. Although these lesions are harmless, they can be cosmetically bothersome or can become irritated by jewelry and clothing.
Lipomas: Benign fatty growths that present as soft nodules under the skin. They usually grow on the trunk, shoulders or arms, but can present almost anywhere on the body. Lipomas are typically slow-growing and painless, but can occasionally cause pain if pushing against a nerve or blood vessel.
Cysts: Benign growths that usually present as a firm bump or nodule directly underneath the skin. Epidermal cysts can occur anywhere on the body but tend to favor the face, neck and back. Cysts are usually slow-growing and painless, but can occasionally become inflamed, irritated and painful.
Dermatofibromas: Benign growths that present as a firm “knot” on the skin. Dermatofibromas are a type of scar tissue which result from repeat scratching, picking, or trauma to the skin. They are most common on the legs and arms, but can present anywhere.
Sebaceous Hyperplasia: Enlarged oil glands that typically present as small pink to yellow bumps on the face. These are benign lesions that commonly present after the age of 30.
Seborrheic Keratosis: Present as tan to brown warty growths that appear “pasted” onto the skin. Individual lesions can be rough and scaly, or waxy in texture. These lesions commonly develop after the age of 30, and it’s more common to have several lesions than just one or two. Seborrheic keratoses can present on any part of the body, but typically exclude the palms and soles of the feet.
Warts: Warts are common lesions that frequently grow on the hands and feet, but can affect any part of the body. They can be subtle and smooth, or large with a rough cauliflower-like surface. Warts are caused a by an infection of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.

Although benign, these lesions need to be differentiated from other potentially concerning lesions before treatment. Depending on your skin type and specific condition, our physician can help determine the best treatment option for you.