Skin lumps are abnormal growths or bumps that may appear on the surface of your skin. They may be soft or firm, small or large, and can occur anywhere on the body.
These lumps can form for various reasons. Some develop from blocked pores, while others develop from benign cysts, lipomas, or even inflamed hair follicles.
In some cases, they may also be early signs of more serious conditions like skin cancer, for example. You may be recommended skin lumps removal if the lumps exhibit changes, grows rapidly, become painful or inflamed, or appears suspicious for malignancy. Read more: https://nctansurgery.sg/skin-lump-removal/.
On this page, we will clarify whether it is safe to try removing skin lumps on your own. But first;
How Do You Remove a Lump from the Skin?
There are several medically approved methods for skin lumps removal in Singapore. These methods are designed to ensure safety and optimal results. If you’re recommended skin lumps removal, here are some common methods your doctor may use;
- Surgical Excision: Surgical excision is often the first choice for removing suspicious or bothersome lumps. In this procedure, the doctor uses a scalpel to carefully cut out the lump along with a small margin of surrounding tissue. The process is performed under local anesthesia to help you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. After removal, the tissue may be sent for histopathological analysis to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves the application of liquid nitrogen to freeze the lump. It is typically used for smaller, benign lesions like skin tags or certain types of cysts. The intense cold destroys the abnormal tissue without affecting the surrounding healthy skin. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive. However, sometimes multiple sessions are needed for complete removal.
- Laser Therapy: Laser therapy uses focused beams of light to target and remove the skin lump. This technique is particularly useful for superficial lesions that are not deeply rooted in the skin. The precision of the laser minimizes damage to the surrounding tissues to ensure less scarring. Patients often experience a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgical methods. Importantly, the results are typically very smooth.
- Electrosurgery: Electrosurgery involves the use of electrical currents to remove the lump by cutting and coagulating the tissue simultaneously. This method is ideal for small, well-defined lumps that do not require extensive excision. The heat generated during the procedure helps to minimize bleeding and reduce the risk of infection. Recovery is generally swift, and patients are advised on proper aftercare to ensure the treated area heals correctly.
Can You Remove a Lump Yourself?
If you love convenience, you may want to remove skin lumps on your own thus the frequently asked question; can you remove a lump by yourself? The simple answer is no—you should not attempt to remove a skin lump yourself.
Self-removal while may seem convenient, but is not advisable due to the many risks associated with non-professional intervention. If you try to remove a lump on your own, you expose yourself to several potential complications. Here are the main reasons why self-removal can be dangerous:
- Risk of Infection: Removing a skin lump without proper sterilization can introduce bacteria into the wound. This can lead to infections that may require antibiotics or further medical treatment. Infections can spread beyond the immediate area and complicate your recovery. Professional procedures, on the other hand are performed in sterile environments to minimize this risk and ensure proper healing.
- Improper Removal and Incomplete Excision: Without the necessary expertise, it is difficult to ensure the entire lump is removed. Partial removal can lead to regrowth or recurrence of the lump. In some cases, incomplete excision may mask the true nature of the lump and even delay the diagnosis of more serious conditions. Professional doctors are trained to assess the margins and remove the lump completely, thereby reducing the risk of recurrence.
- Scarring and Bleeding Complications: DIY methods can also result in significant scarring. This is because the technique may not be precise enough to preserve the skin’s natural contours. Uncontrolled bleeding is another risk when proper instruments and techniques are not used. Bleeding complications can be severe and may require emergency care. In a clinic setting though, the specialists will use techniques that control bleeding and minimize scarring, ensuring better cosmetic outcomes.
Which Doctor to Consult for Lumps on Skin?
If you have skin lumps, the best course of action is to consult a specialist doctor. If you’ve never had lumps before you may wonder; which doctor to consult for lumps on skin?
The right doctor for lumps on the skin is a board-certified dermatologist. Usually, this is the first doctor you should see. Dermatologists are experts in skin conditions and can accurately assess the nature of a lump, whether it is benign or something that requires further investigation.
They are trained to perform skin biopsies and removals using the most advanced techniques available. In many cases, a dermatologist will also work closely with a plastic surgeon if the lump is located in a sensitive area or if cosmetic outcomes are a concern.
For lumps that are suspected to be cancerous, you will want to consult a skin cancer specialist. These professionals have specialized training in identifying malignant lesions and can provide a comprehensive treatment plan.
They often work in multidisciplinary teams to ensure that all aspects of your care—from diagnosis to post-procedure follow-up—are managed professionally. They can guide you through every step of the process, from initial evaluation to aftercare to ensure the best possible outcome. Also, you may be referred to a general surgeon if the lump is large or located in an area that requires a more extensive surgical procedure.
In Closing
While removing skin lumps on your own may seem convenient, it isn’t the best decision. It may also not be worth the risk. To avoid complications which can be even harder to deal with, just have the lumps checked and removed by a professional.
When it comes to your skin, and proper care is vital for lasting health. For expert skin lumps removal in Singapore, contact our board-certified skin cancer surgery specialist today. Visit our clinic at today for specialized care.
NC Tan Surgery – Dr Tan Ngian Chye | Thyroid Head & Neck Specialist Singapore
1 Farrer Park Station Rd, #14-02 Connexion, Singapore 217562
Phone: +65 9731 7973
