Benign Fibroma
Firm, benign skin lumps — examined first, removed where suitable.
A benign fibroma is a small, firm lump made of fibrous tissue in the skin. The most common type, a dermatofibroma, often appears on the legs or arms as a firm bump that dimples inwards when the skin around it is pinched. Fibromas are harmless, but they can catch when shaving or simply be unwanted. At Feonix Aesthetics in Coventry, each one is examined by a clinician first, and removal is only considered where it is appropriate.
What it is
Fibromas are non-cancerous growths of fibrous (connective) tissue. Dermatofibromas are typically a few millimetres to around a centimetre across, firm to the touch, and pink, brown or skin-coloured, sometimes with a slightly darker ring. Soft fibromas can be raised and fleshy. They are most often found on the legs, arms and trunk.
They are usually painless, although some feel tender or itchy, particularly if they are knocked or caught by a razor.
Treatments for Benign Fibroma
More about Benign Fibroma
Why it happens
Dermatofibromas are thought to be the skin's reaction to a minor injury such as an insect bite, a splinter or an ingrown hair, although many people do not remember one. They are more common in adults and in women. Soft fibromas tend to appear where skin rubs and become more common with age.
How we assess it at Feonix
Every lesion is examined by a clinician before anything is done. If a lesion looks atypical, is changing, bleeds, or the diagnosis is uncertain, we will not treat it — we will advise you to see your GP, who can arrange a dermatology review.
A lump that is growing quickly, changing colour or shape, painful, or larger than a typical fibroma needs medical review rather than cosmetic removal. A consultation is an assessment for cosmetic treatment — it is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis where one is needed.
What removal can and cannot do
Where a fibroma is confirmed as suitable, it can be treated with the Fotona laser, which removes the tissue in controlled layers without cutting or stitches. The area scabs and usually heals over one to two weeks, and the skin can stay discoloured for some weeks afterwards.
Because a dermatofibroma extends a little way into the skin, the flat result and the risk of recurrence vary, and some lesions are better left alone or referred for surgical removal. We explain what is realistic for your fibroma at your consultation, and we cannot promise a mark-free result.
Common questions about benign fibroma
What is a dermatofibroma?
It is a common, benign, firm bump of fibrous tissue in the skin, often on the legs. A typical sign is that it dimples inwards when the skin either side is gently pinched. It is harmless, but should still be examined before any treatment.
Is a fibroma the same as a skin tag?
Not quite. Skin tags hang from the skin on a narrow stalk, whereas a dermatofibroma is a firm lump within the skin. Some soft fibromas look similar to skin tags, which is one reason a clinician examines the lesion first.
Can every fibroma be removed with a laser?
No. Some fibromas are better left alone, and some — particularly larger or deeper ones — are better referred for surgical removal. Suitability is decided at your consultation, and we will tell you plainly if laser removal is not the right route.
Will it come back?
Many treated fibromas do not return, but dermatofibromas in particular can recur because part of the lesion sits deeper in the skin. We explain the likely outcome for your lesion before any treatment.
How do I start?
Book a consultation for assessment at our Coventry clinic (15 Little Park Street). The lesion is examined first and, where it is suitable, removal is discussed. Clients come to us from across the Midlands.
How we decide what’s right
Every plan starts with a consultation. We assess your suitability, discuss your goals and review your medical history before recommending anything — and we will tell you if a treatment isn’t right for you. If a prescription-only treatment may be appropriate, this will be discussed and assessed by an appropriately qualified prescriber before anything is prescribed.
£50, held as credit for 12 months against any treatment or product.
Have a fibroma assessed
Fibromas are harmless but can be a nuisance. Book a consultation at Feonix Aesthetics — a clinician examines the lump first and explains whether removal is suitable.