04 Jan What to Do If You Discover a Lipoma
Finding a new lump or growth on your body can be a source of concern. While any new growth merits attention, many lumps found under the skin are benign, noncancerous growths called lipomas. Understanding what these are, how they are identified, and what treatment options exist can provide clarity. A medical professional can offer a definitive diagnosis and guide you through the next steps.
What Is a Lipoma?
A lipoma is a benign tumor composed of fat cells located in the layer of fat just beneath the skin. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the neck, shoulders, and back. Lipomas typically feel soft and rubbery to the touch. They move easily with slight finger pressure.
Most lipomas are small, usually less than two inches in diameter, though they can grow larger over time. They are generally painless unless they grow in a location where they press on nearby nerves or contain many blood vessels. Their exact cause is not fully understood, but there appears to be a genetic component, as they often run in families. They can occur at any age, although they are most common in adults between the ages of 40 and 60.
How Is One Diagnosed?
A dermatologist or other healthcare provider typically diagnoses a lipoma through a physical examination. The provider will feel the lump, assessing its size, consistency, and mobility. They may also ask about your medical history, including whether other family members have had similar growths and if the lump has changed in size or appearance.
In many cases, a physical exam is sufficient for a diagnosis. If the lump has atypical features, a provider may recommend further tests. These tests help to rule out other conditions. A biopsy may be performed. This procedure involves taking a small sample of the tissue from the lump and examining it under a microscope to confirm that it is a lipoma and not a different type of tumor, such as a rare cancerous growth.
How Is One Treated?
Because lipomas are benign and usually do not cause symptoms, treatment is often not necessary. If a lipoma is small, painless, and not in a bothersome location, a healthcare provider may suggest a “watch and wait” approach. This can involve monitoring the growth for any changes in size or the development of symptoms.
Treatment may be pursued if the lipoma is causing pain, growing rapidly, or interfering with movement. Some people also opt for removal for cosmetic reasons, especially if the lipoma is in a visible area. The most common method for lipoma removal is surgical excision.
The surgeon makes a small incision over the lipoma, removes the fatty tissue, and then closes the incision with stitches. This method is very effective, and lipomas rarely recur in the same location after being completely removed. Another option is liposuction, which uses a needle and a large syringe to remove the fatty tissue. This technique can be useful for removing lipomas in areas where a smaller scar is desired.
Seek Professional Dermatology Care
Discovering a new lump on your body warrants a professional evaluation to obtain an accurate diagnosis. A dermatologist can perform a thorough examination, order any necessary tests, and provide a definitive answer about the nature of the growth. Based on the diagnosis, they can discuss your options, whether it involves monitoring the lipoma or proceeding with removal. Seeking professional care provides a clear path forward and helps you make informed decisions about your health.
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