If you found this blog post by searching “how to remove a dermatofibroma at home,” let us be the ones to tell you: Don’t do it! While it may seem easy enough to scrape or dig away that pesky little nodule, you’re likely to do more harm than good.
Need more convincing? Read on to learn why you should back away from the bump and trust your dermatofibroma removal to the pros.
What Are Dermatofibromas?
Dermatofibromas are raised bumps usually caused by damage to the skin. After a small injury such as a razor nick or a bug bite, the cells in the dermal layer overgrow as the area heals. This causes a raised bump or nodule that can range in color from pink to dark brown.
The good news about dermatofibromas is they are not cancerous, malignant, or dangerous in any way. However, they do cause a minor cosmetic defect that can last for years and typically won’t go away on their own.
Can I Remove a Dermatofibroma Myself at Home?
The internet is quick to offer home remedies for everything, and that includes dermatofibromas. Some people attempt harmless (though typically ineffective) techniques, such as massaging the spot with certain oils. Others take the plunge and try to scrape the lesion away on their own. Here are a few reasons you should never attempt this:
- You risk infection and injury. “DIY” and “surgery” are two words that should never be in the same sentence. Without proper sanitization and knowledge of dermal anatomy, your efforts are more like to harm than help.
- It might come back. Even if you appear to have removed the bump, dermatofibromas are likely to reappear unless completely removed by a trained surgeon.
- You might leave an even deeper and larger scar. Dermatofibromas are generally small. The more you dig around and injure your skin, the more likely you are to make the problem worse.
- It won’t harm you to wait for proper treatment. Because these little nodules are harmless, you don’t have to stress about removing them ASAP.
What Is the Best Way To Get Rid of a Dermatofibroma?
Surgical removal is the safest and most effective way to get rid of a dermatofibroma for good. This quick procedure requires only local anesthesia, so you can drive yourself home and return to most of your usual activities right away. Learn more about the recovery process in this blog post.
How Much Does Dermatofibroma Removal Cost?
At our Toronto practice, dermatofibroma removal starts at $495 and is not covered by OHIP. Fortunately, this is typically a one-time procedure that does not require any follow-up care.
If you would like to learn more about how our Royal College-certified plastic surgeons safely remove dermatofibromas, please request a consultation online or call (416) 663-9649.
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