Benign Skin Lesions

Not every new or changing skin growth is cancerous. Many skin lesions are benign (noncancerous) and harmless, but they can still cause irritation or cosmetic concerns. At ALLUSTRA DERMATOLOGY, located in the Heights and Memorial City in Houston, Texas, Brundha Balaraman, MD, evaluates and treats a wide range of benign skin lesions, including cysts, lipomas, skin tags, and seborrheic keratoses. A professional examination ensures an accurate diagnosis and helps determine whether treatment is appropriate. Call the office or request an appointment online.

What are benign skin lesions?

Benign skin lesions are noncancerous growths that develop on or beneath the skin.

They may vary in size, color, and texture. While most are harmless, some can become inflamed, irritated, or cosmetically bothersome. Because certain skin cancers can resemble benign growths, a dermatologic evaluation is important to confirm the diagnosis.

What are cysts?

Cysts are closed sacs beneath the skin that are typically filled with fluid, keratin, or other material.

Common types include epidermoid cysts, which often appear as small, round lumps under the skin. They may:

• Feel firm or movable
• Slowly increase in size
• Become red, tender, or inflamed if infected

While cysts are usually benign, they can become uncomfortable. Treatment options may include monitoring, drainage, or minor surgical removal if necessary.

What are lipomas?

Lipomas are soft, fatty growths that develop beneath the skin. They typically:

• Feel soft and rubbery
• Move easily when pressed
• Grow slowly
• Are painless in most cases

Lipomas are noncancerous and generally harmless. Treatment is not always required unless the lipoma becomes painful, enlarges, or causes cosmetic concerns. Surgical removal may be recommended in select cases.

What are skin tags?

Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small, soft growths that hang off the skin. They commonly appear on:

• The neck
• Underarms
• Eyelids
• Groin area
• Under the breasts

Skin tags are benign and not contagious. They may become irritated from friction or clothing. Removal is typically quick and can be performed in-office if desired.

What is seborrheic keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis is a very common, benign skin growth that often appears in adulthood. These lesions may:

• Look waxy, rough, or “stuck-on”
• Be tan, brown, or black
• Vary in size
• Develop on the chest, back, face, or scalp

Although seborrheic keratoses are harmless, they can sometimes resemble skin cancer. A professional evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis. Treatment is optional and may be performed if the lesion becomes irritated or cosmetically bothersome.

How are benign skin lesions treated?

Treatment depends on the type of lesion, its size, location, and your personal preference.

Options may include:

• Observation and monitoring
• Cryotherapy (freezing)
• Minor surgical excision
• Drainage (for inflamed cysts)
• Electrocautery or other in-office removal techniques

Your provider discusses the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes before recommending any procedure.

When should I have a skin growth evaluated?

You should schedule an evaluation if a lesion:

• Changes in size, shape, or color
• Becomes painful or inflamed
• Bleeds or crusts
• Grows rapidly
• Causes discomfort or cosmetic concern

Even when a growth appears harmless, a dermatologic assessment provides peace of mind.If you have a cyst, lipoma, skin tag, seborrheic keratosis, or another skin growth, contact ALLUSTRA DERMATOLOGY by phone or schedule a consultation online to discuss your treatment options.