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Stanford Health Care

Causes

How We Can Help You

The doctors in the Stanford Health Care Dermatologic Surgery program not only have the expertise to help improve the health and appearance of your skin, they are leading the development of new technologies and techniques not yet available at other centers.

What We Offer You For Cysts, Lipomas, and Moles

  • Fellowship-trained specialists who are global leaders in aesthetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery – active clinical researchers who teach and lecture around the world.
  • Advanced treatment options including laser treatments, precision surgical expertise, and innovative solutions for pigmented skin.
  • A comfortable center that is easily accessible from Highway 101.

Treatment for Cysts, Lipomas, and Moles

Even if a mole, cyst, or lipoma is harmless, you may wish to have it removed for cosmetic reasons or because it is growing larger, causes irritation, or is painful.

Cysts can be drained, injected with steroids to reduce swelling, or be surgically removed.

Lipomas are surgically removed using the least invasive method possible. Another technique that works for some lipomas is liposuction, using a need and syringe to remove the fatty lump.

Depending on their size, location, and type, moles can be removed with a “shave removal” technique or be cut out and the wound closed with stitches.

What are Cysts, Lipomas, and Moles?

Causes of Cysts, Moles, and Lipomas

Cysts form from part of the hair follicle. This process creates a sac that fills with the protein keratin. What causes cysts to form is not known.

Lipomas result from accumulation of fat, but what causes this to happen isn’t known for certain. Genetic factors may be involved, since lipomas often run in families. Aging also may play a part – lipomas can occur at any age but are seen most frequently in adults over 40.

Moles are caused by pigment cells (melanocytes) growing in clusters.

Our Clinics

Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery
The Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery Clinic at Stanford is a nationally recognized leader in skin cancer management, Mohs micrographic surgery and other dermatologic procedures.
450 Broadway Street
 Pavilion B 4th Floor
 Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: 650-725-5272 Getting Here
Make An Appointment

To schedule an appointment, please call: 650-725-5272