Dermatofibroma Removal

A dermatofibroma is a common, benign skin growth that typically forms as a small, firm nodule on the skin. These lesions are usually brown, pink, or reddish in colour and often have a dimpled centre when pinched. Dermatofibromas can appear anywhere on the body but are most frequently found on the lower legs.

Dermatofibromas are usually harmless but may cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. Symptoms include:

• Firm Bump: A small, round, firm growth under the skin, usually less than 1 cm in diameter.
• Color Changes: The bump may appear brown, red, pink, or gray, and its color can change over time.
• Dimple Sign: The growth may indent or dimple when pinched.
• Tenderness or Itching: Some dermatofibromas can be sensitive to touch or cause mild itching.

The exact cause of dermatofibromas is not fully understood, but they are often linked to minor skin injuries such as insect bites, shaving nicks, or other skin trauma. These injuries may trigger an abnormal growth of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for forming fibrous tissue, leading to the development of a dermatofibroma. Genetics may also play a role in an individual’s predisposition to develop these lesions.

Dermatofibromas are generally harmless and non-cancerous. They do not typically pose any significant health risks and rarely turn into cancer. However, they can sometimes be mistaken for other types of skin growths, including malignant ones, so it is important to have them checked by a healthcare provider if there are any concerns.

You should see a doctor if a dermatofibroma changes in size, shape, or colour, or if it becomes painful or starts bleeding. While these changes are uncommon, they could indicate other skin conditions that may require further evaluation. Additionally, if the appearance of the dermatofibroma bothers you, a dermatologist can discuss options for removal.

There are several reasons to consider removing a dermatofibroma:

1. Cosmetic Concerns: Some people choose to remove dermatofibromas if they find them unsightly, especially if located in visible areas like the face or legs.

2. Discomfort or Irritation: If the dermatofibroma is in a location that experiences friction from clothing, shaving, or other activities, it might cause discomfort, warranting removal.

3. Diagnostic Uncertainty: If there is any doubt about the diagnosis, a doctor might recommend removal to perform a biopsy and rule out other skin conditions.

Dermatofibromas can be removed through various methods, depending on their size and location:

Excision: The dermatofibroma is surgically removed along with some surrounding tissue. This method is suitable for deeper lesions and allows for histological examination.

Shave Excision: The lesion is shaved down to be level with the surrounding skin, ideal for raised lesions that are not deeply rooted.

Cryotherapy: This method uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the dermatofibroma. It is typically used for smaller, superficial lesions.

Removal costs vary depending on the clinic and procedure. Here at London Skin Clinic we charge £300 for dermatofibroma removal.

For more detailed pricing and to explore treatment options, please visit our pricing page.