There are few things more unsettling than discovering a new or unusual lump under your skin. Whether you find it while showering or just happen to feel it during the day, your mind can easily jump to the worst conclusions, sparking a wave of anxiety and worry.
If you’re in this situation, the most important thing to know is this: the majority of these common lumps and bumps, known as soft tissue masses, are benign (non-cancerous) and not a cause for alarm.
Still, uncertainty can be stressful. This guide is designed to provide clear, calm information about what these masses are, when they should be evaluated, and how they are treated, giving you the knowledge you need to seek peace of mind.
The Two Most Common Types: Lipomas and Cysts
While there are many kinds of soft tissue masses, two specific types account for the vast majority of what surgeons like Dr. Eston Wenger of Premier Surgical Cleveland evaluates and treats.
Lipomas
A lipoma is a very common, completely harmless growth composed of fat cells. They are the most common soft tissue tumor found in adults.
- How they feel: Typically, a lipoma feels soft, rubbery, and can be moved around easily under the skin. They are almost always painless.
- Where they’re found: Lipomas grow slowly just beneath the skin and are often found on the torso, neck, shoulders, and arms.
Cysts (Epidermoid or Sebaceous)
A cyst is not a growth of new cells, but rather a closed sac that forms under the skin and fills with a protein called keratin—a substance with a cheese-like or oily consistency. Think of it like a pimple that forms a self-contained pocket.
- How they feel: Cysts can feel firm or soft. They can sometimes become inflamed, infected, red, and painful, and may even drain fluid.
- Where they’re found: Cysts are very common and can appear anywhere, but are often found on the face, neck, and torso.
When Should You Have a Lump Evaluated?
Being proactive is always the best approach when it comes to your health. Getting a professional medical evaluation for any new lump provides certainty and puts your mind at ease. It is a good idea to schedule an appointment with a doctor if you notice a lump that:
- Is new or you are unsure what it is
- Is noticeably growing in size
- Is painful, tender, red, or feels warm
- Feels hard and is fixed in place (not easily movable)
- Is located in a place that bothers you or causes discomfort
A simple physical exam is often the only step needed for an experienced surgeon to make an initial diagnosis.
The Path to Peace of Mind: Diagnosis and Treatment
The process of diagnosing and treating a soft tissue mass is typically very straightforward.
Diagnosis: The first step is a physical examination by an expert like Dr. Wenger, who can assess the size, texture, and mobility of the lump. In some cases, a painless ultrasound may be used to get a better look at the tissue beneath the skin.
Reasons for Removal: Even when a mass is confirmed to be a benign lipoma or cyst, a patient may choose to have it removed for several practical reasons:
- To provide a 100% definitive diagnosis.
- If the mass is causing pain or irritation from rubbing against clothing.
- For cosmetic reasons, if the patient is bothered by its appearance.
The removal is a minor surgical procedure, usually performed right in the office. The area is numbed with local anesthesia, and the mass is removed through a small incision that often only requires a few stitches to close.
Your Trusted Partner for a Clear Diagnosis in Cleveland, TN
Don’t let the worry of an unknown lump under the skin disrupt your peace of mind. The vast majority of these masses are harmless, and an expert evaluation is a quick and simple step toward getting clear answers.
If you have a new or concerning soft tissue mass, schedule a consultation with Dr. Eston Wenger at Premier Surgical Cleveland. A straightforward evaluation from an experienced general surgeon in Cleveland, TN, can provide the reassurance you need. Schedule a Consultation Online or call us at (423) 472–5423.
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