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My dog has a soft, jelly-like lump on her cheek. Is it a sebaceous cyst?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 12 years and 8 months old | 13 lbs

Missy has a jelly like bulge on her cheek. Is it a sebaceous cyst? It’s soft jellylike, getting very big. It’s the size of a cherry tomato now.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 25th, 2019

Hard to tell based on the photo unfortunately. Masses that are underneath the skin, like this one, have to be felt in person. If it is soft, then it is likely a lipoma (benign fatty tumor), but it is best to have your vet feel it and potentially have it tested to make sure. It definitely isn't a sebaceous cyst, b/c it is not a dermal (skin) mass but instead is underneath the skin. Best wishes with your pet Missy moving forward. Take care!

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 27th, 2019

    This mass does appear to possibly be a sebaceous cysts, which is typically benign and non-cancerous. However, it is best to get this examined by your vet for confirmation. I hope that your pet Lizzy does well moving forward. Best wishes and take care.

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