The doctors and PA-Cs at Bryn Mawr Dermatology have spent extensive time learning about the many intricacies of our body’s most extensive organ: the skin. In addition to ailments that affect the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin), dermatology experts are well versed in the growths that occur just beneath the skin. The vast majority of these growths are benign, and although they may be bothersome and can become infected, they are likely not hazardous to your general health. Despite being able to identify and treat these subcutaneous growths, the cause of them is often a mystery. We do know; however, that if you develop a cyst or a lipoma, you are more likely to develop others and genetic predisposition to form these lesions is likely a factor.

If you identify a lump beneath your skin that didn’t used to be there, or that has begun to change in shape or size, it is a good idea to make an appointment with one of our skin care specialists to identify and treat the growth. We will be able to provide you with an analysis of the lump and ensure that if it is medically suspicious it is remedied or removed. Your provider will be able to assess whether this growth is secondary to any other major medical concerns, or if it is amongst the vast majority of benign soft tissue growths that are diagnosed every day. We will also be able to tell you if it is possible to prevent similar growths from occurring with lifestyle changes and/or medication.