Benign lumps beneath the skin; cysts are fluid-filled while lipomas are fatty tissue.
What is it?
Cysts and lipomas are common, non-cancerous skin growths. Cysts are sac-like structures filled with fluid or semi-solid material, often arising from blocked hair follicles or oil glands. They can occur anywhere on the body and may become inflamed or infected. Lipomas are soft, movable lumps composed of fatty tissue, usually found just under the skin on the neck, back, arms, or thighs. While generally painless, both cysts and lipomas may grow in size or cause discomfort depending on their location.
How is it treated?
In many cases, no treatment is necessary unless the growth is painful, infected, or cosmetically bothersome. If removal is desired, both cysts and lipomas can be surgically excised under local anesthesia in our office. Infected cysts may require drainage or a course of antibiotics.
Providers at Charlotte Dermatology carefully evaluate the type and size of the growth before determining the appropriate method. Patients are advised on wound care and recurrence prevention after removal.