A Lipoma is a round or oval lump of fatty tissue that grows beneath the skin within the subcutaneous tissue. It is benign, slow growing and not cancerous. They are usually painless, range from pea size to several centimetres across, move easily, feel rubbery and can grow anywhere on the body. Lipomas most common locations are on the back, arms, shoulders, neck and torso.
1 in every 1000 people develop a lipoma most often between the ages of 40 and 60.
It is unknown what causes lipomas to grow but they do have a genetic risk. You are more likely to develop a lipoma if a family member has one.
How is a Lipoma Diagnosed?
Your surgeon will usually diagnose a lipoma during physical examination.
A biopsy may be required to confirm diagnosis and exclude cancerous tumours such as liposarcoma.
An Ultrasound Scan or MRI scan may be recommended to confirm depth of the lesion, blood supply and pressure symptoms against nerves or other structures.
Ultrasound scan or MRI scan may be required in the following situations:
- Lumps situated in the head and neck
- Deeper lumps
- Lumps >3cm in diameter
- Lumps that are painful or growing
What are your treatment options?
Lipomas do not need to be removed but if the Lipoma causes cosmetic concern due to size or location, is painful or growing, removal is recommended.
Surgical Removal – Most lipomas are removed by surgical excision. The procedure is safe and highly effective. Recurrence is rare.
The skin overlying the lipoma is initially numbed with a local anaesthetic injection. A surgical incision is made over the lipoma. The lipoma removed and the wound is stitched neatly together.
Stitched wounds usually take 10-14 days to heal. Avoid heavy or strenuous exercise during this period. Office work can resume the day after your procedure
Surgical excision is safe and highly effective. Recurrence is rare.
If you require a minor surgical procedure, why not book a consultation with our highly experienced consultant plastic surgeon to determine which treatment option is best for you.
Our clinic is Care Quality Commission registered and operates by strict safety and care protocols.