A lipoma is a common, non-cancerous growth composed of fatty tissue that forms just beneath the skin. These soft, movable lumps can appear almost anywhere on the body, though they are frequently found on the back, trunk, arms, shoulders, and neck. While generally harmless, many individuals seek information about their nature and options for removal.
Understanding Lipomas
A lipoma is an overgrowth of fat cells, forming a round or oval-shaped lump that feels soft and rubbery. These growths are typically located in the subcutaneous tissue, the fatty layer directly under the skin, but can occasionally occur deeper within muscles or organs. Most lipomas are painless and small, often less than 2 inches (5 centimeters) in diameter, though some can grow significantly larger.
Lipomas are benign, meaning they do not spread to other parts of the body. While the exact cause of lipomas is not fully understood, a genetic predisposition can exist. They are more common in people between 40 and 60 years old.
Dermatologists and Lipoma Removal
Dermatologists frequently remove lipomas due to their specialized knowledge of skin conditions and expertise in minor surgical techniques. They regularly diagnose skin growths and perform excisions. Their practice often involves ensuring proper cosmetic outcomes, a consideration for many seeking lipoma removal.
While dermatologists commonly handle these procedures, other specialists like general surgeons or plastic surgeons also perform lipoma removals. The choice of specialist can depend on factors such as the lipoma’s size, location, and concerns about scarring. Dermatologists are typically equipped to manage most superficial lipomas in an office setting.
The Removal Procedure
The most common method for lipoma removal is surgical excision, an outpatient procedure typically performed under local anesthesia. The area around the lipoma is numbed with an injection. The surgeon then makes an incision over the lipoma, carefully dissecting it from surrounding tissues.
Once the lipoma is entirely removed, the incision is closed with sutures. The size of the incision depends on the lipoma’s dimensions, with smaller lipomas sometimes removed through a minimal incision. Another technique, liposuction, can be used, particularly for larger lipomas or when minimizing scarring is desired. This involves using a thin tube (cannula) to suction out the fatty tissue, but it might not remove the entire capsule, potentially increasing recurrence risk compared to full excision.
Considerations for Removal
While lipomas are generally harmless, individuals may choose removal for several reasons. Cosmetic concerns are a primary motivation, especially if the lipoma is in a visible area or is large. Discomfort or pain can also prompt removal, particularly if the lipoma presses on nearby nerves or contains blood vessels.
Rapid growth or diagnostic uncertainty may also necessitate removal. If a lump is growing quickly or its nature is unclear, removal may be recommended to confirm it is a benign lipoma and not a more concerning growth like a liposarcoma.