American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Jay Patel
3 years ago
Answered

What exactly is this? Osteoma?

I've always had this on my forehead for as long as I can remember. What exactly is it and what kind of a procedure would be needed to correct it? Possibly from a childhood injury or congenital?

Procedure: Cosmetic Surgery
Location: Newtown, PA

Replies 3

Phileemon Payne
ASPS Surgeon
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Hello,

Typically an osteoma is benign bone growth that creates a hard bump that can be felt and sometimes is painful if it is hit. No one knows exactly what may cause these growths of the bone but some have suggested it could be related to a traumatic injury. Typically a CT scan can look at the bone to determine if that is truly the issue of the bony bump. Most of the time an osteoma can be removed by making a small incision that is hidden in the hair. I recommend finding a plastic surgeon who is subspecialized in Craniofacial surgery or is comfortable removing these types of bone masses. The excess bone can be shaved off and sent to pathology for analysis.

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Nelson Castillo

Thank you for sharing your question. Unfortunately without an in-person examination, or photographs, it is difficult to offer advice as to what the mass may be. Typically either an osteoma or lipoma is the culprit. I would seek out an in-person consultation to diagnose the mass and then understand your treatment options. Hope this helps.

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Dennis Hurwitz
ASPS Surgeon
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I recommend removal and microscopic examination. Probably a hairline incision will allow access to remove the bony growth of your forehead with an osteotome.

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