Dermatofibroma Removal
Dermatofibroma Removal in Our Glasgow Clinic
Dermatofibromas are small harmless, fibrous nodules or papules that usually occur in the limbs, although they can present anywhere on the skin. To the touch they feel like firm bumps and sit just underneath the skin. Sometimes they can be itchy, painful or tender, but usually do not cause symptoms.
You may be seeking the doctor’s diagnosis for reassurance, or perhaps would like to have the lesion removed. At the Altruderm clinic we offer this service in our Minor Ops treatment room.
To clinically diagnose a dermatofibroma the doctor may carry out the ‘pinch test’ where the lesion is pinched to check if it dimples, which is a sign of a dermatofibroma.
The doctor may also examine the lesion using dermoscopy. This is where a tool called a ‘dermatoscope’ is used to magnify the lesion. The dermatoscopic characteristics of a dermatofibroma are a central white area surrounded by pigmentation.
Definitive diagnosis can be obtained by sending a sample to the histopathology lab.
You should advise the doctor if the lesion has grown or become ulcerated recently as this could be a sign that it is atypical and requires investigation.
I highly recommend Altruderm. Very friendly, professional and a beautiful immaculate place. So happy with my results can’t thank you enough!
How We Remove Dermatofibromas at the Altruderm Clinic Glasgow
Dermatofibroma removal at the Altruderm clinic begins with a thorough consultation with Dr. McDaid where he will examine the skin, provide a diagnosis and advise on the procedure.
Traditional Surgical Excision is the best treatment for removing dermatofibromas. This involves cutting out the lesion from where it is embedded in the skin. This leaves a gap which requires closing with stitches to produce the best possible scar.
The specimen is then sent to the pathology lab for definitive diagnosis. This information can be shared with your NHS GP with your consent.
You can be guaranteed continuity of care and will be treated by Dr. McDaid throughout your treatment journey, from initial consultation to your follow-up care in the clinic.
Dermatofibroma Removal – What You Can Expect
Consultation
A consultation where a dermatofibroma is suspected will typically last up to 30 minutes with Dr. McDaid in our Glasgow clinic. During this time, Dr. McDaid will examine the lesion and provide you with a diagnosis. This may be via a combination of the ‘pinch test’ and the dermatoscope to examine the lesion up close, as well as taking a history from you on how the lesion has behaved.
Should you decide that you would like to have the dermatofibroma removed Dr. McDaid will advise you of the safest method of removal. During your consultation you can ask Dr. McDaid any questions you may have about your diagnosis or the treatment itself. You will be given a treatment plan including costs for the procedure and an appointment will be made to carry out the procedure in the clinic.
About your treatment
All of our minor surgical procedures are carried out in our Glasgow Minor Ops treatment room. On the day of your procedure Dr. McDaid will discuss the risks and benefits of treatment and you will sign a consent form. At Altruderm your comfort is important to us and a local anaesthetic will be administered to ensure your procedure is pain fee. With local anaesthetic you are awake for the procedure and can return to your regular duties upon leaving the clinic.
After your treatment
Once the procedure has been completed, Dr. McDaid will advise you how to care for the area the treated area. You will receive an after-care advice leaflet by email. You will also be given a telephone number to contact Dr. McDaid directly out-with clinic hours should you have any questions or concerns. We will also schedule a follow-up appointment for you with Dr. McDaid for approximately two weeks after your procedure.
Prices
| Consultation | £100 |
| Dermatofibroma Removal includes the specimen being sent to the histopathology lab and a follow up appointment. | £695 |
| Additional follow-up appointment | £50 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dermatofibroma?
A dermatofibroma is a fibrous nodule or papule that sits underneath the skin. It is a benign skin lesion usually found on the limbs or upper back.
Will I have a scar?
Scarring can be a consequence of any type of surgical procedure and depends on a number of factors, such as the size of the area being treated as well as your body’s own ability to repair itself. However, a number of factors can work towards minimising any scarring and you will be given advice on techniques following your procedure.
What is the ‘pinch test’?
The ‘pinch test’ is where the clinician pinches the lesion to determine if there is a dimple on the overlying skin. A dimple is a characteristic of a dermatofibroma. Although the pinch test is not a definitive technique for diagnosis it is one of the ways, along with taking a thorough history from the patient and examining the lesion using the dermoscopy technique, to aid diagnosis.
Can a dermatofibroma recur once it has been removed?
Dermatofibromas can recur. This is because the lesion can extend beyond the clinical margins. However, the clinician can mitigate this by ensuring surgical margins are sufficient to minimise chances of recurrence.