Syringoma removal

What causes syringomas?

Syringomas form from cells in the sweat ducts. The exact cause is not always clear, but they are more common in adults and often appear gradually over time.

They may occur as a few isolated bumps or as multiple small bumps clustered around the eyes. They are not pimples and usually do not respond to acne treatments or squeezing.

Why assessment matters before treatment

Small bumps around the eyes can have several causes. Syringomas can look similar to milia, sebaceous hyperplasia, xanthelasma, closed comedones and other small skin lesions.

During a skin treatment assessment with a nurse, your clinician will assess whether the bumps are consistent with syringomas, whether treatment is suitable for the eyelid area, and what degree of improvement is realistic. If doctor review is required, we’ll arrange this before treatment.

How syringomas may be treated

Radiofrequency may improve the appearance of syringomas. Treatment is tailored to the bumps and may be staged, particularly around the eyes. Complete removal is not guaranteed, and treatment may not be worthwhile when the likely benefit is limited.

Can syringomas be removed at home?

No. Syringomas should not be squeezed, picked, pierced or treated with home removal devices, especially around the eyes. This can cause irritation, infection, pigment change or scarring.

Because syringomas sit within the skin rather than simply on the surface, effective treatment requires careful assessment and technique selection.

Healing and possible risks

After treatment, the area may be red, swollen, crusted or tender while it heals. Mild swelling can be more noticeable around the eyelids than on other parts of the face.

Possible risks include redness, swelling, crusting, pigment change, scarring, textural change, incomplete clearance and recurrence. Your clinician will explain what to expect before treatment proceeds.

Can syringomas come back?

Syringomas can recur after treatment, and new bumps can develop over time.

Related skin conditions

Spot Check Clinic also assesses and treats a range of other small skin lesions where suitable, including milia, xanthelasma, sebaceous hyperplasia, skin tags, cherry angiomas and seborrhoeic keratoses.