Find out what a lump or swelling under the skin is likely to be
If you have noticed a lump, swelling or swollen gland under the skin, a soft tissue ultrasound scan (also called a lump scan) can help show what is causing it.
At Enigma Healthcare in Tarporley, you can book a private lump ultrasound without a GP referral. Appointments are often available within days, from £195, so you don’t have to wait weeks for an answer.
Ultrasound is commonly used to examine lumps beneath the skin. It helps clinicians judge whether a lump is likely to be a harmless condition such as a cyst or lipoma, or whether further investigation is needed.
A soft tissue ultrasound is a safe, painless scan that uses sound waves to create images of the tissue beneath your skin. It does not use radiation. It is often the first investigation recommended when a new lump or swelling is found.
The scan lets clinicians look at:
You can read more about ultrasound scans on the NHS website.
Which scan is right for my lump? A soft tissue ultrasound looks beneath the skin. If you are worried about a mole or a growth on the skin’s surface, our dermatology team can assess it directly. A lump in the testicle needs a testicular ultrasound. A lump in the neck may need a thyroid scan. If you’re not sure, ask us before you book.
Book a soft tissue ultrasound Call us on 01829 863 331A detailed assessment of your thyroid gland, useful if you have noticed a neck lump or swelling or have been advised to investigate a thyroid abnormality. The scan examines the size and structure of the thyroid and can identify nodules, cysts and other changes.
Most lumps beneath the skin are benign (non-cancerous), but any new or
unusual lump should be assessed by a clinician.
You may wish to arrange a lump ultrasound if you notice:
Many people choose a private lump ultrasound for reassurance and to
investigate symptoms quickly.
When to see a doctor promptly: a lump that is growing quickly, feels
hard or fixed in place, or comes with unexplained weight loss, fevers or
night sweats should be checked by a doctor without delay.
A soft tissue ultrasound can show:
It can show a lump’s size, position and whether it is solid or filled with fluid, which helps work out the likely cause. It can’t always tell for certain whether a lump is harmless. Sometimes a biopsy or further imaging is needed, and if so we’ll explain why and what happens next.
If further specialist care is needed
If your scan shows something that needs further assessment, our team can arrange referral to the appropriate specialist within Enigma Healthcare, including our Consultant Dermatologists or our Upper Limb Orthopaedic Consultant. This gives you a clear pathway for further care.
Your appointment at Enigma Healthcare is straightforward and typically takes around 20 minutes.
Ultrasound scans are non-invasive and painless, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterwards. Your report is sent directly to you and/or your GP.
Book a soft tissue ultrasound Call us on 01829 863 331A soft tissue ultrasound, also called a lump scan, is a painless scan that uses sound waves to create images of the tissue beneath your skin. It is used to examine lumps, swellings and swollen glands.
It can show lipomas, cysts, enlarged lymph nodes, soft tissue swelling or inflammation, fluid collections or abscesses, and other abnormalities under the skin.
Not on its own. Ultrasound shows a lump’s size, position and whether it is solid or fluid-filled, which helps decide whether it looks harmless or needs further tests. If more tests such as a biopsy are needed, we’ll explain why and arrange the right next step.
The appointment typically takes around 20 minutes.
You don’t usually need to do anything special. Wear clothing that gives easy access to the area, and show the clinician where the lump is.
We’ll explain what the scan shows and the next steps. If you need further assessment, we can arrange referral to the appropriate specialist within Enigma Healthcare, including our dermatology and orthopaedic consultants.
Your report is sent directly to you and/or your GP within 24 hours of your appointment.
Not ready to book an appointment just yet, or unsure whether a soft tissue ultrasound is right for your lump?
Leave us your details and your question below, and a member of our imaging team will get back to you personally.
Prefer to talk straight away? Call us on 01829 863 331.
