A lump under your skin can be worrisome. You might be concerned that it’s a tumor — but two of the most common types of skin lumps are lipomas and cysts. Both are almost always harmless, but understanding the differences is the first step to getting the care you need.
Balaguru Sambandam, MD, FACS, and our team at North Tarrant Health Providers provide advanced care for common skin issues. Here’s what you need to know about the similarities and differences between lipomas and cysts.
A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth under the surface of your skin. Lipomas are composed of fat cells and usually have a soft, rubbery texture.
Although lipomas can form anywhere on your body, they’re most common along the neck, shoulders, back, or arms. They vary in size, from just a few millimeters to several centimeters across. Most lipomas develop slowly over time, but eventually stop growing and maintain the same stable size.
One of the hallmark features of a lipoma is its softness and mobility. When you touch a lipoma, it feels squishy and you can push it around under your skin. Most lipomas are painless, unless they press on nearby nerves.
Lipomas are usually symmetrical round or oval shapes. It’s possible to have multiple lipomas at once, and they tend to emerge gradually — often over months or even years.
Like lipomas, cysts are non-cancerous growths that form under your skin. They may be large or small, and feel firm or spongy. Cysts can also form anywhere, but they’re especially common on the face, chest, back, and in folds of skin. However, cysts differ from lipomas in a few key ways.
Cysts contain fluid, pus, or other biologic materials. They can develop from an infection, which often makes them feel tender, painful, red, or inflamed. And unlike lipomas, cysts can appear quite rapidly.
There are many different types of cysts, including pilonidal cysts and sebaceous cysts. The type of cyst you have can dictate the symptoms you experience.
Your cyst may be a dome-shaped bump or have a dimple at the center. It might feel soft or hard, depending on what’s inside. If a cyst gets infected, it can feel painful or tender, and it may ooze pus.
Despite their differences, most lipomas and cysts are harmless. They don’t always require professional care, but it’s important to consult the doctor if you notice any concerning changes, like:
Dr. Sambandam and our team can make a definitive diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan to address your symptoms.
We can surgically remove painful or unsightly lipomas. Cyst treatment depends on its size, location, and whether it’s causing any symptoms. If your cyst is infected, painful, or growing rapidly, we may drain it or remove it surgically.
Unsure about a lump under your skin? Understanding the differences between lipomas and cysts can help ease your concerns. Schedule a consultation with our team at North Tarrant Health Providers to get a personalized treatment plan. Call our Fort Worth, Texas, office at 817-904-4165 today, or book online any time.
