Lips: Little painless bumps formed and remain

Some years ago I noticed some light coloured painless bumps had formed on my upper lip, about the size of small pimples. I've uploaded a picture for you. One bump is larger and a line of smaller ones are off to one side. I think someone told me it was likely excess cholesterol which had deposited there. They haven't gone away and I'd like to be rid of them. I'm wondering what they are, what has caused them and how I could be rid of them. Can you help with this?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
These can be due to Fordyce spots. They are small yellowish-white granules on the inner surface and border of the lips.
Treatment of Fordyce spots includes CO2 laser or electro desiccation, TCA chemical peels(temporary treatment),diathermy or laser vaporization.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.