Can This Knot on My Lip Be Removed With Scar Revision?

Q:  I had a wart removed from my lip about a month ago. It has left scar tissue that really bothers me. It feels lumpy. People tell me they can barely tell but I know it’s there and was wondering what might be the best option for me?

A: To provide a really accurate answer, it would be helpful to know exactly how this lip lesion was removed and where exactly on the upper or lower lip it was removed. I am assuming that it was cut out and involved part of the wet and dry vermilion. (pink part of the lips) Excisions that involve the lip will frequently leave a bump or hard knot behind for a period of time. This is a normal reaction to injury and is a combined inflammatory and scar tissue reaction. This is usually very noticeable due to the sensitivity of the lips and the natural tendency for one to constantly run one’s tongue over it. In most cases, this reactive lump will eventually subside as it heals. It will usually take about 3 to 6 months for it to soften up and feel more natural. In those few cases where this lip knot does not eventually go away, a scar revision would be needed.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana