Removal of Lipomas, Cysts, and Soft Tissue Lumps

Discovering a new lump or bump under your skin can be a source of anxiety. While most skin and soft tissue growths—such as lipomas and cysts—are non-cancerous (benign), they can become painful, grow large enough to be unsightly, or become infected.

Dr. Craig Chang provides expert surgical removal for various soft tissue masses. Using precise surgical techniques, he focuses on removing the growth completely while ensuring the best possible cosmetic result and a minimal scar.

Common Soft Tissue Growths

Lipomas (Fatty Tumors)

A lipoma is a slow-growing, fatty lump that is most often situated between your skin and the underlying muscle layer.

• Characteristics: They feel doughy, move easily with slight finger pressure, and are usually painless unless they press on a nerve.
• Why remove them? Lipomas do not go away on their own. Surgery is recommended if the lipoma becomes painful, continues to grow, or interferes with your movement or clothing.

Sebaceous & Epidermoid Cysts

Cysts are sac-like pockets of membranous tissue that contain fluid, air, sebum, or other materials.

• Characteristics: They often appear as small, hard bumps just under the skin. They may have a small “pitted” opening in the center.
• Why remove them? Unlike lipomas, cysts can easily become infected or inflamed (abscessed), causing significant pain and redness. Dr. Chang removes the entire “sac” of the cyst to prevent it from returning.

Other Soft Tissue Masses

Dr. Chang also evaluates and treats other growths, including:

• Skin Tags and Lesions: For comfort or cosmetic improvement.
• Abscesses: Surgical drainage and cleaning of infected pockets.
• Granulomas: Small areas of inflammation or overgrowth of tissue.

The Surgical Procedure

Most lipoma and cyst removals are straightforward, “in-and-out” procedures performed under local anesthesia or light sedation, depending on the size and location of the mass.

• Precision Removal: Dr. Chang makes a small, strategically placed incision to remove the mass. For cysts, he ensures the entire wall of the sac is removed to minimize the chance of recurrence.
• Cosmetic Closing: Using advanced suturing techniques, the incision is closed in a way that minimizes tension on the skin, resulting in a fine, faint scar.
• Pathology: To ensure your peace of mind, removed masses are typically sent to a laboratory for pathological evaluation to confirm they are benign.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from soft tissue surgery is generally very quick:

• Immediate Activity: Most patients can return to work the same or the following day.
• Simple Wound Care: You will be given instructions on how to keep the site clean and dry.
• Minimal Discomfort: Any post-operative soreness is usually managed with simple over-the-counter pain relief.

Why Choose Dr. Craig Chang?

While many clinics offer “lump removal,” choosing a board-certified surgeon ensures that the mass is evaluated with an understanding of the underlying anatomy. Dr. Chang’s surgical expertise ensures that the growth is removed safely—especially if it is near nerves or blood vessels—with an emphasis on both health and aesthetics.

Schedule Your Evaluation

If you have a lump or cyst that is bothering you, growing, or causing pain, contact us today for a consultation in Victoria or Corpus Christi.