What can be done about benign skin lesions?

At Magnolia Dermatology of Clarksville, TN, our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Neelam Patel, works with patients in and around the area concerned about new or changing skin growths. While some of these may be cancerous, there is a wide range of benign skin lesions that may also be found on the body.

What are the types of non-cancerous skin growths that can develop?

Dr. Patel and her team at Magnolia Dermatology encourage patients with new or changing growths to be vigilant about visiting our office for an evaluation to ensure the skin lesions are benign and not malignant. Once it has been determined that it is a benign skin lesion, patients often ask about the various types of non-cancerous skin growths that may be found. They include:

  • Moles: These are small, pigmented spots on the skin that can be raised or flat. They are usually brown and can appear anywhere on the body.
  • Skin tags: Also known as acrochordons, these are small, fleshy growths that usually occur in areas of friction such as the armpits, neck, and under the breasts. They can range in their colour and appearance from flesh-toned to dark brown.
  • Seborrheic keratosis: This waxy, raised growth often appears on the face, chest, shoulders, and back. They typically have a “stuck-on” appearance and can be tan, brown, or black.
  • Cherry angiomas: These are small and often bright red growths that can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually round or oval in shape and can increase in number with age.
  • Dermatofibromas: These small, harmless bumps usually have a firm, smooth surface and are pink, brown, or purple. They commonly occur on the legs but can also be found in other areas of the body.
  • Lipomas: These are soft, fatty lumps that can occur anywhere on the body. They are typically painless and can range in size from a small pea to several centimetres in diameter.

There are many other types of non-cancerous skin growths, including cysts, hemangiomas, and keloids, and working with a dedicated and experienced professional to get a proper diagnosis and discuss the treatment of benign skin tumours is your next step.

What can be done about benign skin lesions?

Treatment for benign skin lesions will vary depending on the location, size, and type of growth. When you visit with the team at Magnolia Dermatology, you can rest easy knowing that treatment options are effective and safe under the care of our experienced team. We invite you to call (931) 551-2929 to request an upcoming appointment at our office, conveniently located at 276 Warfield Boulevard and serving patients in the surrounding communities of Fort Campbell, Springfield, Nashville, and Pleasant View, TN.