Growth on nose - What is it? (photo)

Question

I have a weird growth on my nose. It started out as a barely noticeable bump, but it has been growing slowly over a couple of years. I was NOT born with it. It showed up in young adulthood. Can anyone tell me what it is and/or how to get rid of it? It doesn't hurt and feels pretty firm, but it's noticeable and I hate it.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Mole removal begins with a comprehensive examination and consultation to determine the likelihood of a mole being worrisome. Excisional and incisional biopsies are reserved for suspicious moles. But it’s good news that most moles are not problematic and are only cosmetic, thus leading to the option of scarless or non-surgical mole removal with lasers and RF and plasma. Our office specializes in non-surgical mole removal.

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself 100 Surgeon

Erin Smith, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. The lesion you are describing and demonstrating in the photograph is likely benign in nature, and much less likely malignant. This could represent a fibrous papule or sebaceous cyst. This would likely be amenable to surgical resection. A detailed in person consultation with a facial plastic surgeon may be of benefit to you. In order to determine exactly what this lesion is, a biopsy or resection would be required.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I can provide some general information about common growths that might appear on the nose. Here are a few possibilities:

Sebaceous Hyperplasia: This is a common, benign condition where small, yellowish bumps appear due to enlarged oil glands. These bumps are typically not painful and can be treated with laser therapy or electrosurgery if desired.

Nasal Polyps: Though these usually occur inside the nasal passages, they can sometimes present externally. They are typically soft and non-cancerous.

Dermatofibroma: A benign skin growth that feels firm and is usually harmless. They often appear as small, raised bumps and can be removed if they cause cosmetic concerns.

Basal Cell Carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can appear as a small, shiny bump or a growth with visible blood vessels. It's important to have any suspicious lesions evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out skin cancer.

Cyst: A firm, non-cancerous bump filled with fluid or other material. Cysts can sometimes become inflamed or infected.

It's essential to consult with a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. They can perform a physical examination and possibly a biopsy to determine the nature of the growth and recommend the best course of action for removal or treatment if necessary.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

This is an intradermal nevus which is a normal mole. As we get older, we tend to develop new and more moles.  This one doesn't turn bad and is best just shaved flat under local.

Growth on nose - What is it? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Normal moles can be removed easily from the nose.

Answer: Normal moles can be removed easily from the nose.

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Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

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Growth on nose - What is it? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Normal moles can be removed easily from the nose.

Answer: Normal moles can be removed easily from the nose.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.