A large, red, swollen lump on the chin or jawline, especially one with a visible pus-filled center, may indicate a skin abscess, boil, or inflamed cyst. These conditions can look similar, and a medical examination is needed to identify the exact cause. One common possibility is a bacterial infection involving a hair follicle, sometimes caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Another possibility is an inflamed or ruptured epidermoid cyst, which can become swollen, tender, and filled with thick material. Severe inflammatory acne can also produce deep, painful nodules around the chin and jawline. However, appearance alone cannot reliably distinguish between these conditions.

Treatment depends on the diagnosis and severity. A healthcare professional may recommend warm, moist compresses for certain smaller lesions or perform sterile incision and drainage if a significant abscess has formed. Antibiotics may be prescribed when there is spreading infection, fever, or other risk factors. Steroid injections may help some inflamed cysts, but they are not appropriate for suspected active infections.

⚠️ Do not squeeze, puncture, or attempt to drain the lump yourself. A rapidly growing swelling, spreading redness, fever, severe pain, or swelling near the mouth or neck warrants prompt medical assessment. A large or painful lump on the face should be examined by a healthcare professional rather than treated at home.