Aglow Dermatology
Benign skin lumps such as cysts and lipomas are extremely common. While they are usually harmless, many patients choose removal for comfort, cosmetic reasons, or if the lesion becomes irritated or enlarges over time.
At Aglow Dermatology, we provide expert evaluation and in-office removal of both cysts and lipomas with a focus on minimizing scarring and optimizing cosmetic outcomes.
Understanding the Difference Between Cysts and Lipomas
What is a Cyst?
A cyst is a closed sac under the skin filled with fluid, keratin, or other material. Common types include epidermoid cysts and pilar cysts.
Key features of cysts:
- Often feel firm or fluctuant under the skin
- May become inflamed or infected
- Can sometimes drain material if ruptured
- Frequently have a small central pore
👉 Learn more on our dedicated page: Cyst Treatment & Removal
What is a Lipoma?
A lipoma is a benign fatty tumor that grows slowly under the skin. It is made up of fat cells and is not cancerous.
Key features of lipomas:
- Soft, “doughy” feel
- Typically mobile under the skin
- Slow-growing
- Usually painless unless pressing on a nerve
👉 Learn more on our dedicated page: Lipoma Removal
When Is Treatment Recommended?
Not all cysts or lipomas require removal. Treatment is typically recommended when:
- The lesion is growing or changing
- There is pain, tenderness, or recurrent inflammation
- It becomes infected or repeatedly drains
- It is cosmetically bothersome
- It interferes with clothing or daily activity
- Diagnosis confirmation is needed
A dermatologic evaluation helps determine whether observation or removal is best.
What to Expect During Removal
Evaluation
Your visit begins with a clinical examination to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best treatment approach.
In-Office Procedure
Most cysts and lipomas can be removed in a simple outpatient procedure:
The incision is closed with sutures when needed
- Local anesthesia is used to numb the area
- The lesion is carefully excised
- For cysts, the cyst wall is removed to reduce recurrence risk
Recovery
- Mild soreness for 1–3 days
- Stitches (if used) are removed in 7–14 days
- Scarring is typically minimal with proper technique and aftercare
Why Choose Aglow Dermatology?
At Aglow Dermatology, we emphasize:
- Precise surgical technique
- Minimal scarring approach
- Proper diagnosis before removal
- Cosmetic-conscious closures
- Patient comfort throughout the procedure
We treat both simple and complex cases, including recurrent or inflamed lesions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Moles are common, and most are harmless.
Rarely, a mole can become melanoma, but many melanomas arise as new spots rather than from existing moles. Any changing or unusual mole should be checked. (Cancer.gov)
New moles are common in children and young adults. A new mole after age 30 deserves closer attention, especially if it looks different or changes.
No. Atypical moles are not melanoma, but they can look like melanoma and may be associated with increased melanoma risk.
Sometimes. Cosmetic mole removal may be reasonable if the mole is benign and bothersome. A dermatologist should evaluate it first.
No. At-home mole removal can cause infection, scarring, incomplete removal, and missed diagnosis of skin cancer.
Yes. Melanoma can occur in all skin types, including Black, Hispanic, Asian, Middle Eastern, and other skin of color patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cysts and lipomas typically do not resolve without treatment. Cysts may temporarily shrink if they drain, but often recur unless the full sac is removed.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so discomfort is minimal. Patients usually report only mild pressure.
Lipomas rarely recur if fully excised
Cysts can recur if any portion of the cyst wall remains
Yes, but the goal is to keep it as small and discreet as possible. Scar appearance improves over time.
Yes. A consultation ensures the correct diagnosis and determines whether removal is necessary or optional.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have a growing, painful, or bothersome skin lump, early evaluation can make removal easier and improve cosmetic outcomes.
Call or book an appointment with Aglow Dermatology today to discuss cyst or lipoma removal in a safe, in-office setting.