Cysts and lipomas often appear as lumps beneath the skin and may sometimes become tender, inflamed, or uncomfortable. At Waterside Dermatology, our doctors take the time to evaluate what you’re noticing and recommend thoughtful, evidence-based care tailored to your needs.
Relieve Discomfort
From Unwanted Growths
Cysts and lipomas are common lumps that develop beneath or within the skin. Cysts are enclosed sacs that may contain fluid or other material, while lipomas are typically soft growths made of fatty tissue. Both are usually benign, but they can sometimes become bothersome. Treatment depends on the type of growth, its location, and your symptoms, and may include monitoring or surgical removal.
Signs & Symptoms of Cysts & Lipomas:
- A noticeable lump beneath or within the skin
- A round or dome-shaped bump
- A soft or rubbery lump
- A lump that moves slightly when touched
- Gradual growth over time
- Tenderness or discomfort
- Redness or inflammation around a cyst
- Swelling around the affected area
- Drainage from an inflamed or ruptured cyst
- A growth that becomes increasingly bothersome
What Causes Cysts & Lipomas?
Cysts and lipomas develop for different reasons. Cysts can form when skin cells, keratin, or other material become trapped beneath the skin, creating an enclosed sac. Lipomas develop from an overgrowth of fat cells. Both can occur in otherwise healthy people and are usually benign.
Factors that may contribute to or increase your likelihood of developing these growths include:
- Blocked or damaged hair follicles
- Previous skin injury or irritation
- Certain genetic conditions
- A family history of lipomas
- Increasing age
- A tendency to develop certain types of cysts
- Abnormal growth of fatty tissue in a localized area
Treatment for Cysts & Lipomas
Your visit starts with a careful evaluation of the lump. Your doctor will examine its size, location, texture, and appearance and ask when you first noticed it, whether it has changed, and if you’re experiencing tenderness, inflammation, drainage, or discomfort. This helps determine whether the growth appears consistent with a cyst or lipoma.
Treatment depends on the type of growth and whether it is causing problems. Some cysts and lipomas may be monitored, while bothersome growths may be removed surgically. Inflamed or symptomatic cysts may require additional treatment, depending on the condition. Your doctor will discuss the appropriate options with you and explain what to expect.
FAQs
How Do I Know Whether I Have a Cyst or Lipoma?
It can be difficult to tell on your own. Lipomas are typically soft, movable lumps beneath the skin, while cysts may feel firmer and sometimes become inflamed or drain. Your doctor can examine the growth and determine what it is likely to be.
Do I Need to Have My Cyst or Lipoma Removed?
Not necessarily. If a cyst or lipoma is benign and isn’t causing problems, your doctor may recommend simply monitoring it. Cyst or lipoma removal may be considered if the growth becomes painful, inflamed, bothersome, or continues to grow.
Can My Cyst Become Infected?
Some cysts can become inflamed or infected, potentially causing redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, or drainage. If you notice these changes, avoid squeezing the cyst or attempting to drain it yourself. A dermatologist can evaluate it and determine the appropriate next step.
Can My Lipoma Become Cancerous?
Lipomas are benign fatty growths and do not typically become cancerous. However, not every lump beneath the skin is a lipoma. If you develop a new lump or notice an existing growth changing, have it properly evaluated to rule out other possible conditions.
Will My Cyst Come Back After Treatment?
A cyst can sometimes return, particularly if its entire sac or wall is not removed. Your likelihood of recurrence depends on the type of cyst and how it is treated. Your doctor can discuss what to expect based on your individual situation.
Have That New Lump Checked
Whether you’ve noticed a new lump or have a cyst or lipoma that’s becoming uncomfortable, our doctors can help you understand your options. Call Waterside Dermatology in Bradenton, FL, today to schedule a consultation for cyst and lipoma treatment.
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