Syringomas
Syringomas are small, flesh colored or yellowish growths that are usually found on the lower eyelids or upper cheeks. These abnormal tissue growths result from overactive sweat glands and begin to develop usually during young adulthood, although they can occur any age. Because they are benign (harmless), there is no need to treat them. However, many patients find them unsightly and opt to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Syringomas can occur in everyone, but are more common in Caucasian and East Asian women, especially between the ages of 25 and 40. Syringomas can be associated with diabetes, inherited connective tissue disorders, or Down Syndrome.
Syringomas may look like other benign growths, including milia, sebaceous hyperplasia, xanthoma, lichen planus, flat warts, or acne. They may also be confused with a malignant tumor known as basal cell carcinoma. For this reason, it is important to have your syringomas medically evaluated.
In some younger individuals, syringomas may erupt suddenly and cause itchiness, redness, and pain. For others, syringomas are asymptomatic. In either case, they can be disfiguring and cause emotional distress.
The gold standard treatment for removal of syringomas is laser surgery utilizing the highly effective CO2 laser technology. The CO2 lasers have been in medical use for decades and have a long standing track record. Other treatments using electrocautery, curettage amongst others. Topical creams are also available, but have a higher chance of recurrence (lesions coming back).
A numbing cream will be applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
The treatment areas will take a few days to completely heal following laser removal. It is critical that the treatment area does not receive sun exposure for the next several days following laser treatment. Patients are also advised to refrain from exercising at this time. Healing time varies according to the depth of the lesions.
The CO2 laser is highly effective, but in rare cases the bumps may return. However, in these rare cases, the lesions may be easily retreated.
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Skin & Laser Dermatology Center treats patients for all skin care concerns, including skin cancer surgery, cosmetic dermatology, sclerotherapy, laser peels, laser hair removal, hyperhidrosis, rosacea, and acne treatments.