Dermatology Procedures
There are many different types of lesions that can grow on the skin, and more of them often appear as we age.
Below is information on some of the most common types of benign skin lesions, but it certainly is not an exhaustive list. Due to the countless types, variation, and complexity of lesions that can present on the skin, obtaining an assessment by a dermatologist is vital for diagnosis and knowing the best method of treatment.
After a thorough discussion of your medical history and the history of your skin growth, the dermatologist will be able to work with you to create a treatment plan that is safe, effective, and meets your goals.
Cysts
Cysts are extremely common and can vary dramatically from very small to very large, often feeling like a little bump or knot under the skin. They usually start as a small lump and can grow with time.
Moles
Moles are very common and can appear at any age. They can be flat or raised, and can range to skin coloured to darker in appearance. In most cases, moles are benign and do not necessitate removal. However, many people find they can be an inconvenience (for example they can rub against clothing), or feel them to be aesthetically unappealing.
Achrocordons (Skin Tags)
Skin tags are small growths that typically are found in areas of friction where clothing often rubs, such as neck, chest, underarms, back, and groin, but can also be found under the lower eyelids. They can be bothersome as they can catch on clothing or jewelry, and this trauma can sometimes cause the area to bleed and make it open to infections.
Lipoma
A lipoma is a non-cancerous slow-growing lump made up of fat cells and is one of the most common benign growths in the skin. People of any age can develop them, but often becomes most apparent between the ages of 40-60. Lipomas are located deep under the surface of the skin and is soft to the touch, moving easily when prodded with a finger, and typically causes no discomfort.
Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic Keratoses are very common benign skin lesions that often start to occur during the third or fourth decade of life. They can develop almost anywhere on the skin and often have a “waxy” or “stuck on” appearance. They can be affectionately referred to as “wisdom spots” as more of them tend to occur with time and maturity.
Cherry Angiomas
Cherry angiomas (or sometimes known as haemangiomas) are harmless, small red to purple growths that are in fact a collection of tiny blood vessels. They can appear anywhere on the body and more of them occur with time and maturity.
Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Sebaceous hyperplasia are very common skin-colored to yellowish bumps that occur on the face, and sometimes on the upper body. They often have a bumpy “lobulated” appearance with a central dell.