Cyst/Lipoma
Removal

Patient's wrist and hand showing a benign skin growth evaluated for cyst or lipoma removal.

A lump or growth that develops under the surface of the skin may have many possible causes, but two of the most common are cysts and lipoma.

A cyst is a collection of shed skin cells and skin oil that become trapped under the surface of the skin. Over time, the body develops a membrane to “wall off” these errant byproducts. A firm lump develops under the skin that may communicate with the surface, exuding malodorous white or yellow-green discharge. Cysts may become inflamed and quite painful if irritated or ruptured under the skin.

A lipoma is a harmless proliferation of fat cells that grow into a clump under the skin. Though typically not painful, chronic pressure or irritation may cause discomfort.

Did you know…

Some patients are genetically prone to developing multiple cysts or lipomas, and may need repeated care and treatment over the course of years to mitigate associated pain and discomfort.

Frequently
Asked Questions

How can I tell what type of growth is under my skin?

A dermatology provider can often determine the nature of a subcutaneous growth from extensive experience feeling previous growths and then removing them to verify their makeup. In exceptional cases, imaging such as ultrasound may be required to gain further insight into the cause of a subcutaneous nodule. However, the only definitive method of diagnosing a subcutaneous growth is surgical removal.

What treatment is available for my cyst or lipoma?

If treatment is desired for a subcutaneous growth, lipomas and cysts can be surgically removed under local anesthesia in office. The result is often a linear scar with sutures that can heal very well with appropriate care. Inflamed cysts may instead be incised and the contents drained, which can hasten their resolution. Oral antibiotics may be necessary in some instances of inflamed cysts as well. If a subcutaneous growth is not bothersome, and has been determined highly likely to be non-cancerous by a dermatology provider, no treatment is necessary.

Will insurance cover cyst/lipoma removal?

Very often, insurance will cover removal of a cyst or lipoma that is bothersome to the patient in some way. In some uncommon cases however, insurance will not cover surgical excision of these growths, especially if removal is desired only for cosmetic purposes. Dermatology practices will often still be able to remove growths for cosmetic reasons, charging a discounted “cash pay” price, that may be even lower than out of pocket costs when using commercial insurance. A dermatology provider has expertise in determining appropriate treatment and insurance coverage, and should be consulted with any questions.