Finding a new lump on your face can naturally leave you wondering what it is and whether it needs to be removed. For one 36-year-old patient at G&L Surgical Clinic, a small lump below his right earlobe had gradually become larger and increasingly uncomfortable.
After assessing the lump, Dr Ganesh discussed the possible options with him and helped him understand what to expect from treatment. The patient ultimately decided to have the lump removed under local anaesthesia.
Assessing the Lump
The lump was approximately 2 cm in size and felt superficial and mobile during examination. There were no signs of acute inflammation or infection at the time.
Based on its appearance and clinical examination, it was thought to be a sebaceous cyst, a common type of lump that can develop under the skin.
Dr Ganesh explained that there were two options: the lump could be monitored, or it could be surgically removed. As it had been getting bigger and had started to cause discomfort, they discussed how leaving it could potentially allow it to become larger or become infected in the future.
After discussing the options, the patient chose to proceed with an excision biopsy under local anaesthesia.
Why Was the Lump Sent for Histopathology?
Although the lump appeared consistent with a sebaceous cyst, removing it also provided an opportunity to establish exactly what it was.
The tissue was therefore sent for histopathological examination, where it could be examined under a microscope.
The results were different from the initial clinical impression. Rather than a sebaceous cyst, the lump was found to be a small dermal abscess with surrounding inflammation and fibrosis.
Importantly, there was no evidence of malignancy.
This is one reason histopathology can be useful when a lump is removed. Even when a lump appears straightforward during an examination, examining the tissue can confirm the diagnosis and identify findings that may not have been apparent beforehand.
Helping the Patient Feel Reassured
Dr Ganesh also took time to explain the procedure and its potential risks before surgery, including bleeding, infection, swelling, scarring and recurrence.
For patients who are already worried about a lump, understanding what is happening can make the experience feel much less daunting. At G&L Surgical Clinic, the aim is to make sure patients have the opportunity to ask questions, understand their options and feel comfortable with the treatment plan before proceeding.
A Smooth Recovery and Follow-Up
At the patient’s 11-day follow-up appointment, he was feeling well. There was no pain, swelling or discharge, and the wound had healed without signs of infection.
Dr Ganesh went through the histopathology results with him and provided him with a copy of the report. He also discussed scar care and advised the patient on what to look out for as he continued to recover.
The patient was reassured by the results and was happy with how he was recovering.
A Growing Lump Is Worth Having Assessed
Not every lump requires surgery, and the right approach depends on factors such as its size, location, appearance, symptoms and how it changes over time.
For this patient, the lump was becoming larger and uncomfortable, which led him to seek further assessment. A clinical examination helped Dr Ganesh determine that it appeared superficial and suitable for removal under local anaesthesia, while histopathology provided the final diagnosis.
Most importantly, the patient was able to have his concerns addressed from the initial consultation through to his follow-up appointment, with clear explanations at each stage.
If you have noticed a lump that is growing, changing or becoming uncomfortable, having it assessed can help clarify what it may be and whether any treatment is needed.
G&L Surgical Clinic offers consultations with Dr Ganesh Ramalingam to assess your sebaceous cyst and discuss your options.
Location: 38 Irrawaddy Road, #05-23, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore 329563
WhatsApp: +65 9088 8313
