Dermatofibroma Treatment

[glasshouse651]

Hello,

I recently went to a dermatologist and was diagnosed with a dermatofibroma on my lower left shin. He said my avenues for treatment were leaving it alone (as it is benign), or excising it through surgery.

However, the idea of getting this cut out of my leg makes me nervous. I've been reading on the internet that the resulting scar can often be more unsightly than the original lump, and that especially on the shins can heal poorly. At the same token, I find this nodule unsightly—it is hard, lumplike, raised above the skin and discolored from my normal skin hue (it is red). It makes me embarrassed to wear a skirt/shorts.

I've also heard that these dermatofibromas can be lessened with liquid nitrogen. Mostly, I just want it to appear less unsightly and discolored. Would freezing it have any effect? And is the excision as bad as it is made to sound? What course of treatment is recommended, as I'm reluctant to just leave it as it is, as it makes me feel self conscious. (My legs used to be my nicest attribute.)

Thanks.