Lipomas
Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) growths of fatty tissue that develop under the skin. They are usually soft, slow-growing, and painless, and can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most common on the shoulders, back, neck, arms, or thighs. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding and managing lipomas:
Characteristics of Lipomas
- Texture: Soft, doughy, and easily movable under the skin.
- Size: Usually small (2–3 cm), but they can grow larger in some cases.
- Pain: Typically painless, though they may cause discomfort if they press on nerves or are near joints.
- Shape: Usually round or oval.
- Growth: Slow-growing and generally stable over time.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Genetics:
- Family history of lipomas increases the likelihood of developing them.
- Associated with certain genetic conditions (e.g., familial multiple lipomatosis).
- Age:
- Commonly appears in middle age (40–60 years old).
- Injuries:
- Trauma to an area might trigger lipoma formation, though this is rare.
- Medical Conditions:
- Linked to conditions like Madelung’s disease, Gardner syndrome, or Dercum’s disease in rare cases.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While lipomas are benign, consult a doctor if:
- The lump grows rapidly.
- It becomes painful or tender.
- It feels hard, immovable, or irregular.
- There are associated symptoms like redness, warmth, or drainage.
- The lump interferes with movement or daily activities.
Diagnosis
A dermatologist may use the following to confirm a lipoma:
- Physical Examination:
- Assess size, texture, and mobility.
- Imaging Tests:
- Ultrasound: To determine the lump’s composition.
- MRI or CT Scan: For deeper or larger lipomas.
- Biopsy:
- To rule out other conditions, such as liposarcoma (a rare cancer).
Treatment Options
Most lipomas do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. Treatment options include:
1. Observation
- If the lipoma is small, painless, and not growing, regular monitoring is often sufficient.
2. Surgical Removal
- Procedure: The lipoma is excised under local or general anesthesia.
- Indications:
- Large or growing lipomas.
- Painful or symptomatic lipomas.
- Cosmetic concerns.
4. Steroid Injections
- Reduce the size of the lipoma temporarily, but they do not remove it completely.
We have various treatments to help remove the lipomas, contact our office today!
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