A lipoma is a common, non-cancerous growth composed of fatty tissue that typically forms just beneath the skin. These soft, movable lumps usually feel rubbery and are generally painless. While lipomas are considered harmless, there is often an urge to attempt to remove or squeeze such lumps. However, trying to squeeze a lipoma can lead to various problems, which should be understood before attempting any self-treatment.
Immediate Consequences of Squeezing
Squeezing a lipoma can cause immediate physical effects due to trauma to surrounding tissues. Pain is common, as pressure irritates nerve endings, and tenderness develops, making the area sensitive to touch. Forceful manipulation can also rupture small blood vessels, leading to bruising. Localized inflammation, appearing as redness and swelling, occurs as the body’s immune system responds to tissue damage.
Risks and Complications
Beyond immediate discomfort, squeezing a lipoma carries more serious long-term issues. A significant risk is infection if the skin surface breaks, creating an entry point for bacteria. This can cause a localized infection with symptoms like increased redness, warmth, pus drainage, and pain, often requiring medical intervention such as antibiotics or drainage.
Squeezing can also rupture the lipoma internally, releasing fatty contents into surrounding tissue, which may trigger an intense inflammatory response, prolonging swelling and discomfort. In some cases, blood (hematoma) or fluid (seroma) can collect under the skin, requiring professional drainage. Repeated squeezing can also lead to permanent scarring.
Why Squeezing Is Ineffective and What to Do Instead
Squeezing a lipoma is ineffective for removal due to its fundamental structure. Unlike a fluid-filled pimple or cyst, a lipoma is a solid mass of encapsulated fat cells. Pressure will not cause this fatty tissue to “drain” or disappear, as it is a structured growth, not a fluid-filled lesion. Attempting to force the fat out only causes trauma without resolving the lipoma.
Instead of self-treating, consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and management. A doctor can confirm it is a benign lipoma and rule out more serious conditions. If removal is desired, several safe and effective medical procedures are available.
Surgical excision involves an incision to remove the entire fatty mass and its capsule, minimizing recurrence. Another option is liposuction, where a thin tube suctions out fatty tissue, often resulting in less scarring, especially for smaller lipomas. While some professional techniques may involve controlled “squeeze” or extrusion, this is always performed by a trained medical professional after a surgical incision, ensuring sterility and proper technique.