Skin Growths
Noticing a new bump, spot, or growth on your skin can be concerning. While many skin growths are benign and harmless, some may require professional evaluation to rule out skin cancer or other medical conditions.
At Mittal Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of common skin growths, providing clarity, peace of mind, and expert care.
Skin growths are areas of skin that differ in texture, color, or shape from surrounding tissue. They may appear suddenly or develop slowly over time and can affect people of all ages.
Skin growths range from completely benign conditions to precancerous or cancerous lesions, which is why accurate diagnosis by a dermatologist is essential. Many skin conditions look similar to the untrained eye, but require very different treatment approaches.
Skin Tags (Acrochordons)
Soft, flesh-colored growths that commonly appear on the neck, underarms, groin, or eyelids. Skin tags are harmless but may be removed if irritated or bothersome.
Seborrheic Keratoses
Waxy, rough, or “stuck-on” appearing growths that range from tan to dark brown. These are very common with age and are non-cancerous, though they may resemble melanoma without expert evaluation.
Moles (Nevi)
Pigmented skin growths that can be flat or raised. Most moles are benign, but changes in size, color, or shape should always be assessed by a dermatologist.
Cherry Angiomas
Small, bright red or purple bumps made of blood vessels. These are benign and often increase with age.
Dermatofibromas
Firm, raised nodules, often found on the legs or arms. They may be tender and usually develop after minor skin injury.
Warts
Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), warts can appear anywhere on the body and may spread without treatment.
Some skin growths require prompt dermatologic evaluation because they may be precancerous or cancerous, including:
- Actinic keratoses (rough, scaly sun-damaged spots)
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
Any new, changing, bleeding, or painful growth should be evaluated by a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Schedule an evaluation if a skin growth:
- Is new or rapidly growing
- Changes in size, shape, or color
- Bleeds, crusts, or does not heal
- Becomes painful or itchy
- Has irregular borders or multiple colors
- Looks different from your other spots (“ugly duckling” sign)
Early detection is critical — especially for skin cancer — and often leads to simpler treatment and better outcomes.
At Mittal Dermatology, diagnosis begins with a thorough skin examination. Depending on the appearance of the growth, your dermatologist may recommend:
- Clinical evaluation and dermoscopy
- Monitoring over time
- Skin biopsy to confirm diagnosis
- Removal for medical or cosmetic reasons
Our goal is to ensure every patient receives an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care plan.
Treatment depends on the type, location, and symptoms of the skin growth. Options may include:
- Observation and monitoring
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Shave or excisional removal
- Electrosurgery or curettage
- Topical treatments
- Surgical excision or Mohs surgery (for cancerous growths)
Your dermatologist will recommend the safest and most effective approach based on medical necessity and cosmetic considerations.
At Mittal Dermatology, we combine clinical expertise with individualized care to ensure skin growths are properly evaluated and treated. Patients trust us for:
- Accurate diagnosis of benign vs. concerning lesions
- Evidence-based treatment options
- Skin cancer detection and prevention
- Compassionate, patient-centered care
Whether your concern is medical, cosmetic, or preventative, our dermatology team is here to help.
Are all skin growths cancerous?
No. Most skin growths are benign, but some can be precancerous or cancerous — which is why evaluation by a dermatologist is important.
Should benign growths be removed?
Benign growths do not need removal unless they cause discomfort, irritation, cosmetic concerns, or diagnostic uncertainty.
Can I remove skin growths at home?
Home removal is not recommended. Improper removal can lead to infection, scarring, or delayed diagnosis of skin cancer.
Schedule a Skin Growth Evaluation
If you’ve noticed a new or changing skin growth, don’t wait. Call us or request an appointment online to have your skin evaluated by experienced dermatologists at Mittal Dermatology in Orono, Minnesota.
