Laser Mishap: Fibroma Enlarges After Skin Treatment - What to Do?

The fibroma accidentally got lasered and has swollen to twice its original size?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about a situation.
I have some spots on my arm, so I consulted a dermatologist to remove them.
However, due to the large number of spots, the dermatologist accidentally treated a fibroma with a laser, causing the fibroma, which was 0.5 cm, to double in size and develop a small blister.
I returned to the dermatologist today, but the doctor did not acknowledge the mistake and only prescribed an ointment for me to apply, and helped to drain a bit of the blister.
My questions are: if I want to have the fibroma surgically removed, do I need to wait until it is no longer inflamed before the surgery? Also, how can I quickly reduce inflammation in the accidentally treated fibroma? Thank you for your response.

Sunny, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/21

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
It is recommended to wait until the inflammation subsides before proceeding with surgery.
2.
The energy from the laser for spot removal typically does not cause inflammation of the cyst.

Reply Date: 2024/04/21

More Info

I'm sorry to hear about your experience with the laser treatment and the subsequent enlargement of your fibroma. It's understandable to feel concerned about the situation, especially when it involves a medical mishap. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions based on medical knowledge.

First, it's important to clarify what a fibroma is. Fibromas are benign tumors made up of fibrous or connective tissue. They can vary in size and may appear on the skin or other organs. In your case, it seems that the laser treatment inadvertently targeted the fibroma, causing it to enlarge and develop blisters.

Regarding your question about whether you should wait for the fibroma to be non-inflamed before considering surgical removal, the answer is generally yes. It is advisable to allow the area to heal and for any inflammation to subside before undergoing surgery. This is because performing surgery on an inflamed area can increase the risk of complications, such as infection or delayed healing. Typically, it may take a few weeks for the inflammation to resolve, but this can vary depending on individual healing responses.

To help reduce inflammation and promote healing, there are several steps you can take:
1. Follow Medical Advice: Continue to follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider. If they prescribed a topical ointment, use it as directed. This may help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

2. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the area can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Make sure to wrap ice or a cold pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin.

3. Avoid Irritants: Keep the area clean and avoid any products that may irritate the skin, such as harsh soaps, fragrances, or exfoliants. Gentle cleansing with mild soap and water is recommended.

4. Hydration: Staying hydrated can support your skin's healing process. Drink plenty of water and consider incorporating foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which are known to support skin health.

5. Avoid Picking or Scratching: It's crucial to avoid picking at the fibroma or any blisters that may have formed, as this can lead to infection and further complications.

6. Over-the-Counter Anti-Inflammatories: If you are experiencing significant discomfort, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, may help reduce pain and inflammation. However, consult your healthcare provider before taking any new medications.

7. Follow-Up Appointments: Keep in touch with your dermatologist or healthcare provider for follow-up appointments. They can monitor the healing process and determine the appropriate timing for any potential surgical intervention.

If the fibroma does not improve or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, or pus), it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend additional treatments, such as corticosteroid injections, to reduce inflammation.

In conclusion, while it can be frustrating to deal with the aftermath of a laser treatment gone wrong, taking proactive steps to manage inflammation and following your healthcare provider's advice can help facilitate healing. Once the area has healed and inflammation has subsided, you can discuss the possibility of surgical removal of the fibroma with your dermatologist.

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