Lipoma: What is it, and how can it be removed?

While lipomas are generally harmless, it’s fundamental to get these lumps checked and monitored for any changes in size, colour and texture.

Here, Ms Cinzia Sammartino, renowned consultant general surgeon, provides a comprehensive overview of lipomas, describing what exactly is a lipoma and how one can be removed if required.

What is a lipoma, and what does it look like?

A lipoma is a common, benign (non-cancerous) growth of fat cells. It usually appears as a soft, rubbery lump under the skin.

Lipomas are typically slow-growing and can vary in size from less than an inch to several inches in diameter. They are generally painless and can occur anywhere on the body.

What causes a lipoma to form?

The exact cause of lipomas is not well understood, but they are thought to develop when a lump of fat cells starts to grow and multiply abnormally.

Lipomas are more common in middle-aged people and tend to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

Are lipomas cancerous or harmful?

Lipomas are typically non-cancerous and harmless. They are considered benign tumours, and in most cases, they do not lead to serious health issues.

However, lipomas can be bothersome if they grow large or are in a location that causes discomfort or affects a person's appearance.

How is a lipoma diagnosed?

Diagnosing a lipoma usually involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. The doctor may feel the lump under the skin and typically make a diagnosis based on its appearance and texture.

In some cases, imaging tests like an ultrasound or an MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the size and location of the lipoma.

Can a lipoma be removed, and what does the procedure involve?

Lipomas can be removed through a relatively simple surgical procedure if they are causing symptoms or for cosmetic reasons.

The procedure typically involves:

1. Local anaesthesia: The area around the lipoma is numbed to ensure the patient does not feel pain during the procedure.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the lipoma, and the lump is carefully removed.
3. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and the wound is usually small, so scarring is minimal.

Is it common for a lipoma to return after being removed?

Lipomas generally do not regrow in the same location after they are removed.

However, there is a small chance of new lipomas developing in different areas of the body over time. Recurrence in the same location is rare, but it can happen if not all of the lipoma is removed during the initial surgical procedure.

If a lipoma does return to the same spot, additional surgery may be necessary to ensure complete removal.

If you are living with a lipoma and you would like to consult your options with an expert, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with Ms Cinzia Sammartino via her Top Doctors profile today.