Lump under my surgical scar (Photo)

Question

I recently got an epidermoid cyst removed on my cheek bone. It’s been almost 4 months since surgery and I am getting concerned about my scar. My scar is still red (normal) but I have redness (about the size of the cyst) around the scar. There is also a very hard lump underneath the scar (assuming scar tissue) I message it everyday but will it go away? It looks worse than the cyst before I had it removed!! I don’t know what to do. Please help

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

It's understandable to be concerned about changes after surgery. The redness and hard lump you're experiencing under the scar could be related to normal scar tissue formation, which can sometimes take several months to soften and fade. Massaging the scar daily, as you have been, is beneficial and can help reduce the hardness over time.

However, given that it's been almost four months and you're noticing significant issues, it might be wise to have it evaluated by your dermatologist or the surgeon who performed the removal. They can determine if what you're experiencing is typical healing or if there's something more that needs attention, such as an underlying infection or persistent cyst material.

In the meantime, continue with gentle massage and consider using silicone gel or sheets, which can sometimes help with scar healing. Avoid excessive sun exposure on the scar, as this can worsen redness.

Best wishes for your recovery

Lump under my surgical scar (Photo)

Answers (1)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cyst Removal

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

Lump under my surgical scar (Photo)

Answers (1)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cyst Removal

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