Discovering a lump on your skin can be concerning, but in most cases, these growths are harmless. However, some lumps may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Understanding the difference between benign and potentially serious lumps ensures the best outcome. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common types of skin lumps, what warning signs to look for, and when to seek advice from a consultant surgeon or dermatologist.
Common Types of Skin Lumps
1. Cysts: Fluid-Filled Pockets Under the Skin
Cysts are one of the most frequent causes of skin lumps. They form when skin cells or oil glands become blocked, creating a sac filled with fluid or semi-solid material.
Cysts are usually:
✅ Smooth, round, and mobile under the skin
✅ Painless (unless inflamed or infected)
✅ Most common on the scalp, face, neck, or back
Types of Cysts
🔹 Epidermoid Cysts – Develop from blocked hair follicles or sebaceous (oil) glands.
🔹 Sebaceous Cysts – Form when the oil glands become clogged, often producing an unpleasant-smelling discharge.
🔹 Pilar Cysts – Commonly found on the scalp, these contain keratin and tend to run in families.
🩺 When to See a Surgeon: If a cyst becomes painful, infected, keeps growing, or ruptures, it may require surgical removal.
2. Lipomas: Soft, Fatty Lumps
A lipoma is a benign, slow-growing fatty lump that develops beneath the skin. They are typically:
✅ Soft and doughy to the touch
✅ Slow-growing and usually painless unless pressing on a nerve
✅ Most often found on the neck, shoulders, back, or arms
🩺 When to See a Surgeon: If a lipoma increases in size, becomes painful, or affects movement, removal may be advised. Some people also opt for removal for cosmetic reasons.
3. Skin Tags – Small, Harmless Growths
Skin tags are tiny, flesh-coloured growths that commonly appear in areas where skin rubs together, such as:
✔ The neck
✔ The armpits
✔ Under the breasts
✔ Around the groin
Although completely harmless, they can become irritated by clothing or jewellery.
🩺 When to See a Surgeon: If a skin tag becomes painful, frequently irritated, or starts bleeding, a quick and straightforward removal procedure can be performed.
4. Abscesses & Boils: Painful Infections
Unlike cysts or lipomas, abscesses and boils are caused by bacterial infections and contain pus. Symptoms include:
🔹 Redness, swelling, and warmth
🔹 Pain or tenderness
🔹 Possible fever (if the infection spreads)
🩺 When to See a Surgeon: If an abscess does not drain on its own, becomes extremely swollen, or is accompanied by fever, a surgeon may need to perform an incision and drainage procedure to clear the infection.
5. Dermatofibromas – Firm, Fibrous Growths
Dermatofibromas are small, firm lumps that develop due to excess fibrous tissue growth. They are:
✔ Usually brown, reddish, or skin-coloured
✔ More common in women
✔ Painless, but may be itchy or tender
🩺 When to See a Surgeon: If a dermatofibroma grows rapidly, bleeds, or changes colour, a biopsy may be recommended to rule out malignancy.
6. Suspicious Moles or Skin Cancers
Not all skin lumps are benign. Some may indicate melanoma or other types of skin cancer.
⚠️ Warning Signs: The ABCDE Rule
✅ Asymmetry – One half looks different from the other.
✅ Border – Irregular, jagged, or blurred edges.
✅ Color – Multiple colours or sudden darkening.
✅ Diameter – Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
✅ Evolving – Any change in size, shape, or texture.
🩺 When to See a Surgeon: Book a consultation if you notice any of these changes. A biopsy or excision may be required to rule out cancer.
When Should You See a Surgeon?
Most skin lumps are harmless, but you should seek medical advice if you notice:
❌ Rapid growth or sudden changes in shape/colour
❌ Persistent Pain, Redness, or swelling
❌ Bleeding, ulceration, or recurring irritation
❌ Signs of infection (warmth, pus, fever)
❌ A lump that interferes with movement or daily activities
A consultant surgeon or dermatologist can assess whether removal is necessary and discuss the best approach, balancing medical necessity and cosmetic considerations.
Treatment & Removal Options
Most minor skin lumps can be treated with a straightforward outpatient procedure under local anaesthetic.
🔹 Surgical Excision – Complete removal of the lump with minimal scarring.
🔹 Incision & Drainage – For abscesses and infected cysts.
🔹 Cryotherapy – Freezing off warts and specific skin lesions.
🔹 Shave Excision – Removing raised moles and skin tags.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore the Signs
While many skin lumps are benign, it’s always best to have a professional assessment if you’re unsure. Early diagnosis ensures peace of mind and, if necessary, prompt treatment.
💬 Have a question? Drop it in the comments, or contact us for a private consultation!
