I’m Dr. Tina Jenq from Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic. Many patients come to me with a small bump or lump under the skin and ask, “What is this—and do I need to worry?” That’s a great question!
While most of these growths are harmless, they can look or feel similar. Understanding the differences helps you know what’s going on beneath your skin and what kind of treatment makes sense.
Moles: Small Clusters of Skin Cells
A mole forms when skin cells grow together instead of spreading out evenly.
They usually sit on the surface or just within the skin layers.
Moles are:
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Round or oval in shape
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Light brown, dark brown, or pink in color
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Sometimes flat, sometimes raised
Over time, a flat mole may become more domed. Most are completely benign, but if you notice changes in color, shape, or size, it’s best to have it checked.
You can read more about skin lesion removal at our clinic if you’re curious about treatment options.
Lipomas: Soft Lumps Beneath the Skin
A lipoma is a benign growth of fat cells.
Unlike moles, lipomas grow under the skin, often in the fat layer—and sometimes even beneath the muscle.
They usually feel:
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Soft and movable when pressed
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Painless, though larger ones can cause pressure
Smaller lipomas can often be removed easily in the clinic, depending on where they are.
When a lipoma grows deeper under the muscle, removal becomes more complex. In these cases, I make a careful incision to reach the growth, remove it, and then repair the muscle layer.
Recovery is usually smooth—patients can return to most normal activities within a few days.
Sebaceous Cysts: Clogged Hair Follicles
A sebaceous cyst forms when a hair follicle that normally releases natural oil (sebum) becomes clogged.
As sebum builds up, it creates a round, smooth cyst—often with a small central punctum (a tiny opening) on the surface.
Even though the sebum comes from the skin, the hair follicle actually sits in the fat layer. That means cyst removal involves taking out both the punctum and the entire cyst wall beneath the skin to prevent recurrence.
These minor procedures are typically done right in the clinic with local anesthesia. Patients usually feel only mild aching for a day or two afterward, easily managed with Tylenol.
By about three days, most people can resume cardio exercise without issue.
Learn more about minor in-office procedures at Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic.
When to See a Specialist
If you notice any lump that’s growing, changing, or uncomfortable, it’s worth getting evaluated. At Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic, I perform detailed assessments to determine what type of growth you have and whether removal makes sense.
Understanding what’s beneath your skin helps you make confident, informed decisions about your care.
