Managing Post-Traumatic Head Bumps: Treatment Options and Concerns

A lump remaining after a head injury?

Hello Doctor, five years ago I sustained an injury to my head (near the hairline on my forehead) when I was hit by someone, resulting in a swelling about the size of a 50 NT dollar coin.
At the time, I was too afraid to tell my parents.
Now, I have a residual lump about the size of a half NT dollar coin that has persisted for five years.
I previously consulted doctors who said it does not affect my daily life.
I have seen similar cases where doctors suggested surgical removal by a plastic surgeon, but I worry that if I undergo surgery, there might be visible scars that would remind me of the trauma from my childhood.
I would like to ask if there are any medication treatments or other less invasive methods to eliminate this issue.
Thank you, Doctor, for your patience in reading this.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/10

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! It may be advisable to perform an ultrasound first.
If it appears to be fluid, it can be aspirated with a needle.
However, if it has been present for a long time, it is likely to have formed a solid mass, which usually does not require intervention.
If you wish to remove a blood clot and want to minimize the size of the incision, it is possible, but you will need to ensure proper pressure and hemostasis postoperatively.
Take care! Changhua Hospital is concerned about you!

Reply Date: 2023/05/10

More Info

Managing post-traumatic head bumps can be a complex issue, especially when they are the result of past injuries. In your case, it seems that you have a residual bump on your forehead that has persisted for five years after a traumatic incident. This situation raises several important considerations regarding treatment options and the psychological impact of the injury.

Firstly, it is essential to understand the nature of the bump you are experiencing. Given that it has remained unchanged in size and has been evaluated by medical professionals who deemed it non-threatening, it is likely that this bump is a form of scar tissue or a benign growth, such as a lipoma or a hematoma that has not fully resolved. These types of bumps can sometimes be asymptomatic and may not require surgical intervention unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

In terms of treatment options, there are a few avenues you might consider:
1. Observation: If the bump is not causing any pain or functional issues, continued observation may be the best course of action. Many people live with similar bumps without any need for intervention.

2. Medication: While there are no specific medications that can directly reduce the size of a scar or bump, certain topical treatments, such as silicone gel sheets or creams, may help improve the appearance of scars over time. However, their effectiveness can vary, and they are generally more suited for newer scars.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures: If you are open to it, there are non-surgical options such as steroid injections that can sometimes reduce the size of certain types of bumps. This approach is less invasive than surgery and may alleviate some of your concerns about scarring.

4. Surgical Options: If the bump continues to be a source of psychological distress, surgical removal is an option. While you expressed concerns about potential scarring from surgery, modern techniques often result in minimal scarring, especially when performed by a skilled surgeon. Discussing your fears and expectations with a plastic surgeon could provide you with reassurance and a clearer understanding of the potential outcomes.

5. Psychological Support: Given that the bump serves as a reminder of a traumatic experience, it might be beneficial to seek support from a mental health professional. They can help you process the trauma associated with the injury and develop coping strategies to manage any anxiety or distress related to the bump.

In conclusion, while there are various treatment options available for managing post-traumatic bumps, the best approach depends on your individual circumstances, including the bump's characteristics, your physical health, and your psychological well-being. It is crucial to have an open and honest discussion with your healthcare provider about your concerns and preferences. They can help guide you toward the most appropriate treatment plan that aligns with your needs and helps you feel more comfortable in your skin. Remember, you are not alone in this experience, and there are professionals who can support you through both the physical and emotional aspects of your recovery.

Similar Q&A

Managing Head Bumps: Understanding Post-Trauma Symptoms and Care

Hello, doctor. I was in a minor car accident and hit my head, resulting in a large swelling on the back of my head. At the time, I only had my hair cut, applied medication, and used ice packs. After some time, I noticed a large area that feels both hard and soft. I consulted a do...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
Return to the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for treatment.

Managing Persistent Head Pulsations and Sleep Disruptions After Trauma

Hello, doctor: Several years ago, I had bipolar disorder. Four years ago, I stopped seeing a psychiatrist and my condition improved significantly. However, two years ago, I was involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. At that time, I experienced fractures and felt ext...

Dr. Zheng Jingming reply Psychiatry
Hello, I'm not sure if you had a CT scan or other examinations of your head two years ago. The physician may be able to assess the extent of any brain injury based on those results, your medical history, and a neurological examination. I cannot determine whether the reason f...

Managing Post-Trauma Headaches: Causes and Treatment Options

Hello Dr. Jiang! My name is Nick. I had a severe car accident 10 years ago, resulting in a brain hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage. I was in a coma for about a day before waking up. After my recovery, I started experiencing headaches that are triggered by seasonal changes, b...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello Mr. Nick, You mentioned experiencing "migraine and tension headaches that often recur for 2 to 3 days, sometimes accompanied by discomfort in the eyes and rapid pulsation of the temporal artery." This may indicate a vascular headache issue, particularly cluster h...

Managing Long-Standing Head Bump: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options

Your boyfriend experienced a shoulder throw during childhood, resulting in a hard lump about five centimeters in size on the back of his head. This lump has not been treated over the years and has not diminished. In the past couple of years, he has started to experience severe pa...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
It is recommended to schedule an appointment with the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for a detailed examination!