A lipoma is a slow-growing lump made of fat cells beneath the skin. They often appear on the upper body, but they may develop in other areas. Though most are noncancerous, a medical exam helps confirm what the lump is and whether any follow-up is needed. Here is some more information about lipomas:
What Are the Causes?
The exact cause of a lipoma is not fully known, and in many cases, it forms without a clear trigger. Genetics may play a role, especially when several family members have had similar fatty lumps. Inherited conditions, such as familial multiple lipomatosis, sometimes lead to multiple lipomas. When a person has this condition, they may notice several soft lumps on the arms, legs, or trunk over time. Age is another factor. These growths are often found in adults between 40 and 60, but younger adults may also develop them. They are less common in children.
When Should I See a Doctor?
Seeking medical advice if you notice unusual lumps or changes in your body is often beneficial. Many soft lumps are harmless, but it is not possible to identify the type of each lump by touch alone. A doctor may review the size, location, texture, and movement, then decide whether testing is needed. You should also visit a dermatologist if the lump:
- Grows quickly
- Feels firm
- Becomes painful
- Seems fixed in place
These features do not mean the lump is cancer, but they do call for a closer look. Pain is another reason to get checked. Many lipomas do not hurt. If one presses on a nerve, blood vessel, or nearby tissue, it may cause discomfort with movement. In that situation, your doctor should ask how long symptoms have been present and whether they affect daily activities.
Changes in the skin over the lump also matter. Redness, warmth, or drainage can indicate another condition, such as an infection or cyst. A doctor will perform a physical exam and, in some cases, order imaging. If the diagnosis remains unclear, a biopsy may be recommended. During a biopsy, a small tissue sample is removed and reviewed under a microscope. This helps distinguish a lipoma from other growths, including rare fatty tumors that require different care.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Treatment depends on the size of the lipoma, its location, symptoms, and the results of the exam. If the growth is small and benign, your doctor will suggest watching it over time. This means tracking changes in appearance and symptoms, and it can be done during routine visits or at home.
Surgical removal is a common option when a lipoma causes pain or is bothersome. The procedure usually involves numbing the area, making a small incision, and removing the fatty lump. Larger or deeper lipomas may require a more detailed surgical plan. Liposuction is also used to remove fatty tissue from a lipoma through a narrow tube. It usually leaves a smaller scar than standard removal, but it may not remove the entire capsule around the growth.
Learn More About Lipoma
A lipoma is a fatty lump that usually grows slowly and stays beneath the skin. Many lipomas are harmless, but a new or changing lump deserves a medical exam. Pay attention to growth, pain, and skin changes. If you have noticed a lump or have questions about a diagnosed lipoma, schedule a visit with a dermatologist today.
