Discovering a new palpable mass, lump, or growth under the skin can bring significant worry. While many soft tissue bumps turn out to be benign — such as lipomas (fatty tumors), sebaceous cysts, epidermoid cysts, or fibromas — the only definitive way to confirm that a growth is non-cancerous is through surgical removal and histopathological evaluation.
Any newly formed or changing growth warrants a timely consultation with a trained general surgeon. In most cases, a quick outpatient excision under local anesthesia is the safest way to remove the lump, relieve discomfort, prevent local infection, and confirm the diagnosis through laboratory analysis.
Pathology Commitment: Every lump, cyst, or soft tissue mass excised by Dr. dela Fuente is submitted for formal histopathological examination to rule out malignancy and confirm an accurate diagnosis.
Common Lumps & Bumps Treated
Dr. Jose Antonio dela Fuente provides precise in-office and minor surgical excisions for a wide range of soft tissue lesions:
- Lipomas (Fatty Tumors): Soft, mobile, benign subcutaneous growths composed of fatty tissue that gradually enlarge over time.
- Sebaceous & Epidermoid Cysts: Fluid- or keratin-filled sacs under the skin that can become inflamed, painful, or infected if ruptured.
- Fibromas & Skin Lesions: Firm connective tissue nodules or persistent skin growths subject to friction or cosmetic concern.
- Ganglion Cysts & Superficial Mass Biopsies: Non-cancerous joint/tendon lumps or ambiguous subcutaneous growths requiring diagnostic removal.
Minor Outpatient Procedure & Wound Care
Outpatient mass removal is designed for speed, safety, and minimal disruption to your schedule:
| Anesthesia Type | Local anesthesia administered directly around the lesion. |
| Duration | Typically completed in 20 to 40 minutes in an outpatient surgical or clinic room. |
| Surgical Technique | Clean elliptical excision prioritizing complete capsule removal to prevent local recurrence. |
| Cosmetic Closure | Fine cosmetic suturing to minimize visible scar formation. |
| Recovery & Discharge | Immediate discharge home; resume normal light activities the same day. |
Post-Procedure Wound Care Guidelines
- Keep Dressing Dry: Keep the surgical dressing clean and completely dry for the first 24 to 48 hours after excision.
- Shower Protocols: Gently pat the wound dry after showering; avoid submerging the incision in baths, pools, or tubs until sutures are removed.
- Suture Removal: Attend your scheduled follow-up consultation in 7 to 10 days for wound evaluation, suture removal, and official pathology report review.
HMO Insurance & Payment Guidance
Dr. dela Fuente is accredited with several major HMO providers and health cards in the Philippines, including Maxicare, Medicard, Intellicare, PhilCare, Cocolife, InLife Health Care, Caritas, ValueCare, and Pacific Cross. HMO availability and accreditation may vary by hospital and plan — please confirm coverage with your preferred clinic before your visit.
This is general health information and not a diagnosis. Please consult a doctor for advice about your own condition.
Patient Questions About Lump & Bump Removal
Can a lump or bump be removed under local anesthesia on the same day?
Yes. Most superficial skin lumps, lipomas, and non-infected cysts can be safely excised under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure during your consultation or scheduled minor surgery slot, allowing you to return home immediately afterward.
Why is it important to send an excised lump for histopathology analysis?
Even if a growth appears benign on physical examination, microscopic tissue evaluation by a pathologist is the only medical standard to confirm that the mass contains no atypical or malignant cells.
Will removing a cyst or lipoma leave a large scar?
Dr. dela Fuente uses precise incision planning aligned with natural skin tension lines and fine cosmetic suturing techniques to keep scars as small, flat, and minimal as possible.