Understanding the Difference Between a Cyst and a Lipoma

Cysts and lipomas often feel similar: small, round, and slightly raised, but they form for very different reasons. A cyst develops when skin cells or glands become blocked, trapping material like keratin or sebum beneath the surface. A lipoma, on the other hand, is a benign fatty tumour made of mature fat cells that grows slowly beneath the skin.

Both are non-cancerous, but their composition, depth, and treatment options differ. Identifying which one you have is important because the proper management, and potential for recurrence, depends on an accurate diagnosis. 
 

How to Tell If It’s a Cyst

Cysts are common and often mistaken for acne or pimples, but they form deeper in the skin and tend to recur if squeezed or irritated.

Typical signs of a cyst include:

• A small, round bump just under the surface of the skin.
• A visible central opening or “punctum” where material can drain.
• A soft to firm texture that may fluctuate in size.
• Occasional redness, inflammation, or tenderness if infected.
• Found most often on the face, scalp, chest, or upper back.

Cysts contain keratin or oil, which gives them a cheesy or waxy consistency when drained. While most are harmless, infected or painful cysts may require medical removal.
 

How to Tell If It’s a Lipoma

Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps that sit deeper beneath the skin’s surface. They tend to grow slowly over time and are usually painless.

Common features of lipomas include:

• A soft, rubbery texture that moves easily when pressed.
• Slow growth over months or years.
• Typically painless unless pressing on nerves or joints.
• Found most commonly on the shoulders, arms, back, or thighs.
• Usually singular but can occur in clusters for some individuals.

Unlike cysts, lipomas don’t have a visible opening, and they don’t release fluid. They’re made entirely of fat cells enclosed within a thin capsule, which must be removed to prevent regrowth.
 

When to Seek Medical Evaluation

While most cysts and lipomas are benign, any persistent or enlarging lump should be examined by a healthcare professional. Some growths that appear harmless can resemble more serious conditions, making accurate diagnosis essential.

You should book an appointment if:

• The lump is growing quickly or changing shape.
• It becomes painful, red, or warm to the touch.
• You notice multiple lumps appearing in different areas.
• The lump feels firm, immovable, or irregular.

At Calgary Vein & Laser, our clinicians assess the lump’s characteristics through physical examination and, when necessary, ultrasound imaging to confirm the diagnosis before treatment.
 

Treatment Options: Safe and Effective Removal

Both cysts and lipomas can be treated with excision surgery, a straightforward procedure performed under local anesthesia. During excision, the doctor makes a small incision and removes the entire growth, including its capsule, to prevent recurrence.

Excision surgery offers long-term results, minimal downtime, and natural cosmetic outcomes. Most patients resume daily activities immediately after treatment, with complete healing within one to two weeks.

If mild redness or scarring occurs, laser treatment may be recommended afterward to smooth the skin and reduce pigmentation. Attempting to drain or squeeze a cyst or lipoma at home is not advised, as this can cause infection or incomplete removal.
 

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Because cysts and lipomas can look similar, proper identification ensures the right treatment approach. Cysts often respond to simple removal, while lipomas, being made of fat, must be surgically excised to avoid regrowth.

At Calgary Vein & Laser, excision surgery is performed with precision and care, balancing medical safety with cosmetic results. Each case is evaluated individually to ensure the most effective, minimally invasive solution for your skin health.