Skin & Soft Tissue Surgery

Skin and soft tissue tumors

Lumps and growths in the skin or the tissue under it are common. Many are benign, such as cysts or lipomas (fatty lumps), but some skin growths and soft tissue masses need to be removed or tested to know exactly what they are. Removed tissue is sent to a pathologist for examination.

Smaller growths can often be removed in a short procedure with local anesthetic; larger or deeper masses may be removed in the operating room. Dr. Tufts will examine the area, may order imaging, and will talk through the right approach.

Lymph node biopsy

Lymph nodes are small glands that are part of the immune system. A node that stays enlarged or looks abnormal on imaging may need a biopsy, in which all or part of the node is removed so a pathologist can find the cause, such as infection, inflammation, lymphoma or another cancer.

Abscess drainage

An abscess is a painful, swollen pocket of pus under the skin or deeper in the body. Many abscesses need to be opened and drained to heal; antibiotics alone are often not enough. After drainage, the wound may be packed and checked at follow-up visits.

Where surgery is performed

Dr. Tufts operates at AdventHealth Port Charlotte and Murdock Surgery Center. Consultations and follow-up visits are at the Charlotte Harbor Surgical office in Port Charlotte.