A close-up video shows a person with a large, raised, deep-red growth on the upper lip. The lip is visibly swollen and the surface of the lesion looks soft, bright and slightly lumpy. Growths like this are striking to look at, and they often raise the same questions: what is it, is it dangerous, and can it be treated?
The clip comes without medical records, so we cannot say what this person’s diagnosis is. What we can do is explain what a hemangioma usually is, why it appears on the lips, and when a doctor should take a look.
What is a hemangioma?
A hemangioma is a benign growth made of extra blood vessels that cluster together. It is among the most common vascular growths and usually shows up in the first weeks of life, but similar-looking lesions can also appear in adults. Because it is full of small vessels, it tends to be red, purple or bluish, and it may feel soft and spongy when touched.
Why the lips?
The skin and mucous membrane of the lips are thin and rich in blood vessels, so a vascular growth there is easy to see and can swell quickly. A lesion on the upper lip may change the shape of the mouth, make eating or speaking uncomfortable, and bleed easily after even a small knock or bite.
Does it need treatment?
Many small hemangiomas are watched over time, and some in infants shrink on their own. A large one on the lip, however, is usually worth a specialist’s opinion, particularly if it is growing, ulcerating, bleeding or getting in the way of feeding and speech. Depending on the case, doctors may suggest medication such as a beta-blocker, laser therapy, or surgery. The choice depends on the age of the patient, the size and depth of the lesion and how it behaves.
What to do in the meantime
- Do not pick, squeeze or cut the growth; it can bleed heavily and become infected.
- Protect the lip from knocks and keep the area clean.
- If it bleeds, press gently with a clean cloth and seek medical help if the bleeding does not stop.
- See a doctor if it grows fast, changes colour or becomes painful.
The bottom line
A large red swelling on the lip can look alarming, but a hemangioma is usually a benign vascular growth that can be managed with the right care. A proper examination is the only way to confirm what it is and to choose a safe treatment. This article is general information, not a diagnosis.
