What Is Lipoma and When Should it Be Removed?

Lipomas are benign tumors of fatty tissues that form beneath the skin. Although they are not harmful in most cases, they can cause discomfort or be aesthetically displeasing, prompting many individuals to seek treatment. Understanding what a lipoma is and when it should be removed can help you make informed decisions about your health, especially if you notice an unusual lump beneath your skin.

What is a Lipoma?

A lipoma is a soft, slow-growing lump of fat that grows between the skin and the underlying muscle. These lumps are painless, round, and easy to move with light pressure. They can range from as small as a pea to several centimeters in diameter. Lipomas usually grow gradually over time and can occur anywhere on the body but are commonly found on the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms, and thighs.

Characteristics of Lipomas:

• Soft and doughy to the touch
• Non-cancerous (benign)
• Moveable under the skin
• Typically painless unless pressing on nearby nerves or tissues

Lipomas are often discovered accidentally during routine physical exams, as they rarely cause significant symptoms.

Types of Lipomas

There are several types of lipomas, each with its characteristics and treatment approach:

Superficial Subcutaneous Lipoma

This is the most common type, found just beneath the skin. It’s usually painless and doesn’t cause significant discomfort.

Intramuscular Lipoma

These lipomas form within the muscles and may cause more discomfort due to their deeper location.

Angiolipoma

This type of lipoma differs because it has blood vessels and can be more painful than other types, particularly when pressed.

Spindle Cell Lipoma

Typically found in older adults, this type is rarer but it’s treatment is usually the same.

Causes and Risk Factors of Lipoma Development

The exact cause of lipoma formation is not well understood, but genetics are believed to play a significant role. People with a family history of lipomas are more likely to develop them. Other potential contributing factors include:

Genetic conditions: Familial multiple lipomatosis, where multiple lipomas form, tends to run in families.

Age: Lipomas typically develop in middle-aged adults, with people between 40 and 60 years old being more commonly affected.

Trauma: Although rare, physical injuries or trauma to a particular area can lead to the development of lipomas.

Health conditions: Obesity and certain metabolic disorders might increase the likelihood of developing lipomas.

Symptoms of Lipomas

Most lipomas do not present severe symptoms, making them easy to overlook. However, you should pay attention to the following signs that might indicate the presence of a lipoma:

• A soft lump under the skin that can be moved with slight pressure
• Slow growth over months or years
• Typically painless, although some may cause discomfort
• Located primarily on the neck, shoulders, back, or arms

While lipomas are not life-threatening, it’s essential to monitor them for changes in size, texture, or pain levels.

Read Also: 4 Types of Lipomas and How They’re Resolved

When Should a Lipoma Be Removed?

Not all lipomas require removal. However, there are situations where you may need to consider having it surgically excised:

Pain or discomfort

If the lipoma presses on nerves or surrounding tissues, it can cause discomfort, especially in areas that frequently move, like the arms or legs.

Cosmetic reasons

Some individuals opt for lipoma removal purely for aesthetic purposes, particularly if the lipoma is large or in a visible area such as the neck or face, however, you may consider that after surgery a small scar may also be visible in the same area.

Changes in size or shape

Rapid growth or changes in the texture of the lipoma should prompt a medical evaluation. While lipomas are generally benign, any lump that grows quickly should be examined to rule out malignancies.

Difficulty in movement

Lipomas located near joints or muscles may restrict movement, making physical activities uncomfortable.

Diagnosis of Lipoma

Diagnosing a lipoma typically starts with a physical examination. Your doctor may feel the lump and assess its texture and mobility. In some cases, diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans may be necessary to confirm that the lump is a lipoma and not something more serious. If the doctor is unsure, they may also recommend a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is removed for further testing to ensure the lump is non-cancerous.

Lipoma Treatment

If you decide to have a lipoma removed, there is only only effective treatment: surgical excision. It involves making an incision in the skin and removing the entire lipoma. It is typically a simple outpatient procedure with a low chance of complications.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Care

After surgery, most patients experience minimal discomfort. You will likely receive instructions on how to care for the surgical site to prevent infection. Some common tips include:

• Keep the area clean and dry
• Monitor for any signs of infection such as redness or swelling
• Avoid strenuous activity until cleared by your doctor

Most people recover fully within a few weeks, with little to no long-term effects.

Conclusion

Lipomas are generally harmless but can become bothersome if they grow large or interfere with daily life. If you notice any changes in your lipoma or experience discomfort, it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider. Fortunately, lipoma treatment is effective and offers relief from the discomfort and cosmetic concerns they may cause. Consult Dr. Daniel Serralta for the best Lipoma Treatment in Dubai.