Dermatofibroma in Melbourne (Ivanhoe + Diamond Creek)
A small, firm “scar-like” lump under the skin — almost always harmless, but worth checking if it’s new or changing.
A dermatofibroma is a very common benign (non-cancerous) skin nodule. It often feels like a firm little pea under the skin and is most commonly found on the legs or arms. (1,2)
They do not turn into skin cancer. (1,2)
Book a 20 minute appointment with Dr Chris
Diagnosis confirmation + advice on whether monitoring or removal makes sense for you.
Key takeaways
- Dermatofibromas are harmless and often don’t need treatment. (1,2)
- A classic clue is the “dimple sign” — when you pinch the skin, the centre dimples inward. (1)
- Most are stable for years; removal is usually for irritation (shaving/rubbing) or cosmetic preference. (1,2)
- If a lump is atypical, rapidly changing, bleeding without trauma, or not fitting the pattern, we may recommend biopsy for certainty. (1,2)
Jump links
- What is a dermatofibroma?
- What does it look and feel like?
- Why do they form?
- How we diagnose it (including the dimple sign)
- Do you need treatment?
- Removal options (and cosmetic trade-offs)
- When to book
- FAQs
- Book
What is a dermatofibroma?
A dermatofibroma (also called a fibrous histiocytoma) is a benign growth made from fibrous tissue in the dermis (the deeper layer of the skin). (1,2)
They usually appear as a single lesion, though some people can have a few.
What does it look and feel like?
Common features include: (1,2)
- small, firm bump (often around 5–10 mm, sometimes up to ~1–1.5 cm)
- colour can be pink, red, tan, brown, or darker on darker skin tones
- feels firm or rubbery
- usually painless, but can be itchy or tender if irritated
The “dimple sign”
If you pinch the skin on either side, the centre often dimples inward. This happens because the lesion is tethered to the skin surface. (1)
Common locations:
- lower legs (especially)
- arms
- less commonly trunk (1,2)
Why do they form?
In many cases, dermatofibromas seem to form after a minor trigger such as an insect bite or small injury, as a small overgrowth of fibrous tissue during healing — though many people don’t recall a trigger. (1,2)
They are not contagious and not caused by poor hygiene.
How we diagnose it
Most dermatofibromas can be diagnosed by:
- appearance and feel
- the dimple sign
- dermoscopy patterns when appropriate (1,2)
When a biopsy is helpful
If the lesion is atypical (unusual pigment, rapid growth, ulceration, bleeding without trauma, or not fitting the usual features), we may recommend biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and rule out rarer look-alikes. (1,2)
If you’re unsure what a lump is, see Other Dermatological Conditions.
Do you need treatment?
Usually no. Dermatofibromas are benign and often left alone. (1,2)
Treatment is considered when:
- it’s frequently nicked during shaving
- it catches on clothing or is repeatedly irritated
- it’s painful/itchy
- you dislike the appearance (1,2)
Removal options (and cosmetic trade-offs)
The important trade-off: because dermatofibromas sit in the dermis, complete removal usually means a scar. For many people, the scar can be more noticeable than the original bump — particularly on the legs where scars can heal more slowly. (1,2)
1) Observation (most common)
No treatment needed if it isn’t bothersome. (1,2)
2) Excision (complete removal)
Surgical excision removes the lesion fully and is the most definitive option, but leaves a linear scar. (1,2)
3) Shave/partial removal (selected cases)
Can flatten the surface but may leave deeper tissue behind, so the bump may recur or a mark may persist. (1,2)
4) Laser or energy-based options (appearance-focused, selected cases)
In selected cases, energy-based treatments can improve redness/texture or reduce prominence, but they may not remove the entire lesion and recurrence can occur if deeper tissue remains. (1,2)
For a broader overview of how medical lasers are used, see Laser & Light Treatments hub.
We will talk through the best balance between “how complete” and “how cosmetic” for your specific lesion and location.
When to book
Book a review if:
- a new lump appears and you want confirmation
- it changes quickly, bleeds without trauma, ulcerates, or has irregular pigment
- it’s repeatedly irritated (shaving, clothing rub)
- you’re considering removal and want the best cosmetic plan
Book a 20 minute appointment with Dr Chris
FAQs
Is a dermatofibroma dangerous?
No. It’s benign and does not turn into skin cancer. (1,2)
Will it go away on its own?
Most persist long-term, though they can flatten or fade slowly over years. (1,2)
If I remove it, will it come back?
If the lesion is fully excised, recurrence at that spot is uncommon. If only the surface is treated, some regrowth can occur. (1,2)
Can I remove it with creams?
No reliable cream removes a true dermatofibroma because it sits deeper in the skin. (1,2)
Book
If you have a firm bump you’d like diagnosed — or you’re considering removal:
Book a 20 minute appointment with Dr Chris
Ivanhoe: Unit 1, 1065 Heidelberg Road, Ivanhoe VIC 3079
Diamond Creek: Shop 12, 67 Main Hurstbridge Road, Diamond Creek VIC 3089
References
1.DermNet NZ. Dermatofibroma (fibrous histiocytoma). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/dermatofibroma
2.Cleveland Clinic. Dermatofibroma. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21934-dermatofibroma