If you are developing an unusual bump on your skin and are concerned about them being cancerous, it is important that you have it evaluated by a dermatologist. Drs. Todd Remington and Kent Remington are available to assist patients in the area of Calgary, AB with unusual growths. In the event the growth is a pilar cyst, we can help!

What is a pilar cyst?

Pilar cysts are bumps that develop on the skin’s surface and may be referred to as trichilemmal cysts or “wens.” These cysts are benign and are not cancerous, though they can be uncomfortable and unsightly. In most situations, these cysts develop on the scalp, even though they can occur anywhere. The size of these cysts vary, but grow slowly over time. A pilar cyst often does not cause pain, unless it has ruptured due to trauma. Ruptured cysts may result in pain, irritation, rash, and even infection. Because they can be uncomfortable and make patients feel self-conscious, many patients decide to have them removed.

Do I need to remove by pilar cyst?

In most cases, treatment is not needed for a pilar cyst. However, if patients choose to have them removed, this can be done with the assistance of a dermatologist. While a doctor may choose to drain the cyst, surgical removal is often the most desirable option. Patients need to think about the risks that come with surgical removal, including scarring and increased risk of infection. It is important that patients speak with their provider to decide if this is the best way to approach their cyst if it requires removal.

Can my pilar cyst become cancerous?

There is a slight, rare risk that a pilar cyst can become cancerous. If this happens, most patients will notice the cyst growing larger in a short period of time, or may notice the development of other pilar cysts in the same area. This is a reason for concern and should be brought to a dermatologist’s attention as soon as possible for an evaluation and biopsy.

Learn more about pilar cysts

Find out if you could benefit from removal of a pilar cyst by working with the team at Remington Laser Dermatology Centre. Call Drs. Todd and Kent Remington today to request an appointment at our Calgary, AB area office at 150-7220 Fisher Street SE.

There are many growths and changes that can occur to the skin. When patients in Calgary, AB develop yellow patches of skin in around the eyes, they may be dealing with a condition referred to as xanthelasma.

What is xanthelasma?

Xanthelasma is a condition that causes bumpy patches of soft, bumpy growths that develop underneath the skin around the eyes. In most cases, the condition is not harmful or cancerous, though it may be an indicator of heart disease in rare situations. This is why the team of Remington Laser Dermatology Centre encourages patients to come into our office to have their condition evaluated and get a proper diagnosis before considering treatment options.

What are the risk factors in developing xanthelasma?

There are certain conditions and medical factors that may cause a patient to be more at risk of developing xanthelasma. These include:

  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Women over the age of 30
  • Asian and Mediterranean descent
  • Smoking
  • High lipid levels
  • Heart disease

How is xanthelasma treated?

While xanthelasma is harmless and not cancerous, they can remain without any further attention. However, patients uneasy or bothered by their appearance will want to ask their doctor about removal options. Drs. Todd and Kent Remington offer various ways to treat these lesions, including:

  • Cryotherapy
  • Laser surgery
  • Traditional excision
  • Chemical peels
  • Radiofrequency treatments
  • Medications

For some patients who have high cholesterol, maintenance of their cholesterol levels will reduce the development of xanthelasma. However, even after treatment, some xanthelasma may still reappear. By knowing the cause or trigger of the condition, many patients can successfully reduce their appearance and reappearance over time. Additionally, our doctors may take a blood draw to determine if high lipid levels are the reason for their occurrence and help provide effective treatments to adjust these.

Do you have xanthelasma?

If you are in need of a thorough evaluation and diagnosis of what you believe to be xanthelasma, contact the professionals at Remington Laser Dermatology Center in Calgary, AB. Drs. Todd and Kent Remington can assist with this and many other medical and cosmetic dermatology needs for patients in and around the community.

Dr. Kent Remington
( Mon – Wed )

Dr. Todd Remington
( Mon – Fri )