Lipomas
Understanding & Removing Benign Fatty Tumors
Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps that grow beneath the skin. While they are non-cancerous and typically painless, some lipomas can become large, uncomfortable, or cosmetically bothersome, requiring medical removal. If you have a slow-growing lump under your skin, a dermatologist can evaluate whether it’s a lipoma or another type of growthand recommend the best treatment options.
What Are Lipomas?
Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) tumors composed of fat cells that form between the skin and muscle layer. They grow slowly and typically feel soft, rubbery, and movable under the skin. While harmless, lipomas can be genetically inherited, and some may increase in size, press on nerves, or become uncomfortable, prompting removal.
Types of Lipomas
Superficial Subcutaneous Lipomas
The most common type, these lipomas develop just below the skin’s surface, appearing as soft, round, painless lumps that grow slowly over time.
Angiolipomas
These lipomas contain a higher number of blood vessels, making them more sensitive or painful to the touch. They commonly appear on the arms or torso.
Spindle Cell Lipomas
Typically found on the shoulders, back, or neck, spindle cell lipomas have a firm texture and may occur more frequently in middle-aged men.
Intramuscular Lipomas
These lipomas grow within muscle tissue, making them deeper and sometimes more difficult to detect. They may cause discomfort or limit movement if they press on nearby nerves.
Dermatologist-Recommended Lipoma Prevention
While lipomas are largely genetic, certain lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk of excessive fatty growths and ensure early detection.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Although lipomas can form at any body weight, excess fat tissue may contribute to the development of new lipomas.
- Eating a balanced diet rich in healthy fats, lean proteins, and fiber supports skin and tissue health.
- Regular exercise and weight management may help reduce the formation of new fatty growths.
Monitor Skin Lumps & Growths
Performing routine skin self-checks helps identify new or changing lumps early.
- If you notice a slow-growing, soft mass, document its size and any changes over time.
- Seek evaluation if the lump becomes painful, grows quickly, or feels firm and immovable.
Avoid Trauma to the Skin
Injuries can sometimes trigger lipoma formation, especially in people with a genetic predisposition.
- Be mindful of repetitive friction or trauma to areas where lipomas commonly develop, such as the back, shoulders, or thighs.
Surgical Excision
The most effective method for permanent lipoma removal, surgical excision removes the entire fatty lump, including its capsule, to prevent regrowth.
- Best for large, bothersome, or symptomatic lipomas.
- Performed under local anesthesia with minimal scarring.
- Healing typically occurs within 1–2 weeks.
Liposuction for Lipomas
- A less invasive option that suction-removes the fatty tissue, liposuction is used for smaller or softer lipomas.
- Ideal for cosmetic removal with minimal scarring.
- Lipomas may partially regrow if the full capsule is not removed.
Steroid Injections
In some cases, corticosteroid injections can shrink lipomas, reducing their size without surgery.Works best for small, superficial lipomas. Does not remove the lipoma completely but may improve appearance
Observation & Monitoring
If a lipoma is small, painless, and not growing, no treatment may be necessary.
- Dermatologists may recommend regular checkups to ensure the lipoma does not increase in size or cause discomfort.
- Any changes in texture, pain, or rapid growth should be evaluated promptly.
FAQs
Are lipomas cancerous?
No, lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) fatty growths. However, any fast-growing, painful, or firm lump should be evaluated to rule out other conditions.
What causes lipomas to form?
The exact cause is unknown, but genetics, trauma, and metabolic factors may contribute to their development.
Do lipomas go away on their own?
No, lipomas do not disappear naturally. They may stay the same size or grow over time.
Should I have a lipoma removed?
If the lipoma is painful, growing, pressing on nerves, or cosmetically bothersome, removal is recommended.
Does lipoma removal leave a scar?
Minimal scarring is expected with surgical excision, but liposuction removal may leave little to no visible marks.
Can lipomas come back after removal?
If completely excised, lipomas do not regrow. Liposuction may have a slightly higher recurrence rate.
Are lipomas painful?
Most are painless, but angiolipomas or deep-seated lipomas can cause tenderness or discomfort.
How long does lipoma removal take?
Most procedures take 30–60 minutes and are performed under local anesthesia.
Will insurance cover lipoma removal?
If the lipoma is causing symptoms or impairing movement, removal may be covered. Cosmetic removals are typically out-of-pocket.
Still Have Questions?
If You Have a Lipoma That’s Growing or Bothering You, We Can Help
Schedule a consultation with our dermatology team to discuss evaluation and removal options for a smoother, more comfortable skin appearance.
Dermatologists
Tessa Cervantes MD
Dermatologist
Dr. Cervantes specializes in comprehensive care for diverse skin types.
Tessa Cervantes MD
Dermatologist
Dr. Cervantes specializes in comprehensive care for diverse skin types.
Milton Moore MD
Dr. Moore is a seasoned dermatologist known for his innovative approach and dedication to excellence. With a focus on comprehensive skin health, he’s committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for every patient.
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