Lumps on lower cheeks/side of mouth (photos)

Question

I have noticed over the past year that I have began to develop lumps at the side of my mouth which seem to be progressively getting worse. As you can see in the pictures, they are on both sides of my mouth. I would like some help identify what the issue is. They seem to be more prominent when I smile, and the extra 'fat' can be felt if I use my fingers (one inside, one outside my mouth). Ideally, I am looking for a non surgical solution to resolve this. Thanks

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Lipomas are benign fatty tumors that occur under the skin and less commonly within the muscle. They are associated with mild discomfort and a lump underneath the skin. It is always best to talk to an expert plastic surgeon to determine whether the lipoma is possibly a cyst or a tumor or hernia. We would have to remove the lipoma to be sure that it is not something else and we usually do this by sending it to a pathologist for evaluation. If a lipoma is painful, then an exam is needed to make sure it is not compressing on a nerve or whether the diagnosis is different. Aftercare for a lipoma includes gentle compression and Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily on the wound.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and series of photographs.  I do not think that the lumps at the corners of your mouth are lipomas, rather they are natural facial creases formed by the action and movement of the underlying muscles of your face.  These can be treated non-surgically with the use of dermal filler agents to help camouflage the area.  See an ASPS board certified plastic surgeon for an in-person evaluation and treatment discussion.

Harrison C. Putman III, MD (retired) · Answer

I believe you have natural perioral lateral mouth creases, and not lipomas. Surgery is not the best option and may cause scars. Injectable fillers, microfat injections, and other better options are recommended for treatment in most cases. Costs are quite reasonable usually.

Lumps on lower cheeks/side of mouth (photos)

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Lumps on lower cheeks/side of mouth (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Lipoma Removal

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