Persistent Bump Near Eyebrow After Skin Infection
Approximately five to six weeks ago, I experienced what appeared to be a minor skin infection or possibly folliculitis close to the outer area of my right eyebrow. Initially, it presented as a small, firm nodule beneath the skin—barely noticeable at first—but over time, it grew more inflamed and swelled (this inflamed phase lasted from around June 4th until the 12th or 14th). I was given a course of antibiotics (doxycycline), which helped reduce the inflammation. However, since around the 14th, a raised bump has persisted where the original infection occurred, and it hasn’t diminished in size. The bump now has the following characteristics: - It remains slightly elevated and feels solid to the touch. - There is no pain, though it may feel a bit numb if scratched. - The surface looks pinkish and smooth. - There has been little to no change over the past couple of weeks. - There is no discharge, flaking, or additional redness. It's been around two weeks since the infection healed, and I’m becoming concerned that this bump may not vanish on its own. I have a few questions: - Is there a chance this bump will flatten out over time? - Could this be scar tissue, a cyst, or something different? - If it remains, which type of specialist would be appropriate to consult for possible cosmetic removal? Is removal a feasible option? I appreciate any guidance you can provide. Thank you!
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 4:40:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for providing detailed information about the bump near your eyebrow. It sounds like you’ve dealt with quite a bit regarding this issue, and it's understandable to have concerns about its persistence.
Main Points:
- The bump you describe could be scar tissue or a cyst following your skin infection.
- It's possible the bump may flatten over time, but it’s also worthwhile to consult a specialist.
- A dermatologist is the most appropriate specialist to consider for assessment and potential removal.
Explanation:
After a skin infection like folliculitis, it’s not uncommon for the underlying tissue to heal but still leave a raised or firm area, often related to scar tissue. Additionally, bumps like this can also develop into cysts, which are typically benign collections of fluid or tissue. Given that there is no pain or discharge, and the area appears stable, this may be less urgent but still worth monitoring.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Bump: Keep an eye on the bump’s size and characteristics over the next few weeks. It’s possible that it might flatten or change as healing continues.
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Document Changes: Take pictures of the bump weekly to track any changes in size, color, or texture. This documentation can be helpful during any follow-up consultations.
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Consult a Dermatologist: If the bump persists or you are concerned about its appearance, arrange to see a dermatologist. They can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss options for removal if that’s desired.
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Discuss Removal Options: If the bump is determined to be a cyst or scar tissue, the dermatologist can advise whether removal is appropriate and feasible. Removal is often done for cosmetic reasons and is normally a minor procedure.
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Self-Care: In the meantime, avoid picking at or irritating the bump, as this could lead to further inflammation or scarring.
If you have any more specific concerns or notice changes in your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out for further assistance. Be patient with yourself during this healing process.
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