What are these lumps and bumps on the skin?

Lumps and bumps found on the surface of the skin are unusual and can cause one to feel self-conscious. Even though most lumps may appear harmless, it’s always best to receive a full check-up to determine what a lump on the skin means. This check-up, known as a comprehensive medical evaluation, may include a physical examination, imaging tests, and possibly a biopsy. A lump on the skin could be benign or signify a much more serious issue, which is why a comprehensive medical evaluation is crucial.

Signs you should see a doctor for a lump or bump on the skin are when you notice a change in its shape; it starts to become itchy or red, it begins to grow, and it is accompanied by fever. However, if you are generally concerned about the lump on your skin, you should see your doctor to help put your mind at ease.

What kinds of lumps and bumps can be removed?

The surgeon is able to remove a number of lumps and bumps, including moles, cysts, boils, abscesses, warts, skin tags, enlarged lymph nodes and lipomas. These types of lumps and bumps can be removed by means of excision, which means that they are completely cut out of the skin. It is also possible to perform biopsies of concerning lesions prior to complete excision.

Why is it performed?

In many cases, lumps and bumps don’t cause serious complications or health issues, but the surgeon may recommend excision when there is a risk of a skin lesion becoming cancerous. You may choose to have a skin lesion removed if it is causing pain or discomfort, or if you feel it is unattractive.

How does excision work?

The excision of lumps and bumps is usually performed under local anaesthetic, so the procedure is not painful. The surgeon will inject the anaesthetic around the lesion before cutting it out. It is quite common to feel some sensitivity at the sight of excision for some time after the procedure, and in some cases, you will have stitches.