These are usually put under the general designation of “lumps and bumps” and are extremely common in everyday practice. Cysts are cavities that are lined by epithelium. Cysts come in various forms and dimensions and cover a broad swath of potential common skin lesions. Some of the common forms or names are pilar (aka trichilemmal), epidermoid, infundibular, dermoid and sebaceous.

Often patients present with a cyst that’s acutely inflamed. In those circumstances it's usually prudent to treat the underlying inflammation before attempting excision, increasing the chances for improved wound healing. The usual indications for cyst removal are: Rapid growth, increasing pain, drainage, unsightly appearance or uncertain etiology. This procedure termed a ‘cystectomy’ is performed in the office under local anesthesia.

Nevi or as they’re commonly called “moles” are flat or slightly raised skin growths that are usually hyperpigmented. They can appear or grow anywhere on the body’s surface. They’re usually non-painful, but can have smooth, rounded or irregular borders. They’re usually of uniform color but occasionally can be multi-colored with an irregular surface. Some moles can have a benign presentation but can also be a prelude to cancerous progression (melanocytic or dysplastic nevus) OR be suggestive of a malignant lesion such as malignant melanoma. In certain ethnic or racial groups there may be a tendency for these nevi to be or progress to more serious pathology and this necessitates greater surveillance, scrutiny and excision for histopathological examination. These lesions can be treated by either an incisional or an excisional biopsy under local anesthesia.

These are very common ‘fleshy’ skin lesions most notable on the face and neck. They’re usually dark in color, but rarely painful, but can be in areas that cause them to rub or irritate by clothing, necklaces or eyewear. They’re treated by clipping or cautery with a small amount of local anesthesia. They’re usually treated or removed in groups of 5.