Understanding Lipomas

What is a Lipoma?

A lipoma is a soft, fatty lump that forms between the skin and the underlying muscle layer. These lumps are typically slow-growing and feel doughy to the touch. They move easily with slight finger pressure and are usually painless. Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) and rarely cause any serious health issues. While they can occur at any age, they are most commonly detected in middle-aged adults.

What Are the Different Types of Lipomas?

There are several types of lipomas based on their composition and location:

  • Conventional Lipoma: The most common type, made up of white fat cells.
  • Angiolipoma: Contains blood vessels and may cause pain.
  • Spindle Cell Lipoma: A rarer type that tends to occur in the neck, back, or shoulders.
  • Fibrolipoma: Contains fibrous tissue along with fat cells.

While most lipomas are found just under the skin, they can occasionally develop deeper in the body, including in muscles or internal organs.

What Causes Lipomas and Who is at Risk?

The exact cause of lipomas is not well understood. However, several factors may increase your risk:

  • Genetics: A hereditary condition called familial multiple lipomatosis increases the likelihood of developing multiple lipomas.
  • Age: Lipomas are most commonly found in people between 40 and 60 years old.
  • Minor Injuries: Some researchers believe that trauma or injury to a specific area may trigger the development of a lipoma.

Though these risk factors exist, anyone can develop a lipoma at any time.

What Are the Symptoms of Lipomas?

Lipomas often go unnoticed because they tend to be small and painless. However, some individuals may notice a lump that:

  • Soft and movable under the skin
  • Typically painless
  • Slow-growing
  • Usually small (less than 2 inches in diameter), but can grow larger

In rare cases, larger lipomas may press on nearby nerves or organs, causing discomfort or pain. If you notice rapid growth or experience pain from a lump, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist to rule out other conditions.

How Are Lipomas Diagnosed?

At Utah Valley Dermatology, our dermatologists typically diagnose lipomas through a physical examination. In some cases, additional tests like an ultrasound or biopsy may be necessary to confirm that the lump is benign and not something more serious like a liposarcoma, which is a cancerous tumor.

If you’re unsure about a lump on your body, it’s always best to have it evaluated by a professional.

What Are the Treatment Options for Lipomas?

Most lipomas do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. However, if you choose to have the lipoma removed, they can be removed surgically:

  • Surgical Excision: This is the most common treatment for lipomas. The procedure involves making an incision over the lump and removing it entirely. This method ensures that the entire lipoma is removed and reduces the chance of recurrence.
    • Recovery: Most patients experience minimal downtime after surgery and can return to normal activities within a few days.

At Utah Valley Dermatology, our skilled dermatologists like Dr. David Myers perform these procedures with precision and care to ensure optimal results for our patients.

Can Untreated Lipomas Cause Complications?

While most lipomas are harmless, large or untreated lipomas can sometimes lead to complications:

  • Nerve Compression: Larger lipomas may press on nearby nerves, causing pain or tingling sensations.
  • Cosmetic Concerns: Depending on their size and location, some individuals may find lipomas unsightly or uncomfortable.

If you experience any discomfort from your lipoma or if it begins growing rapidly, we recommend seeking medical advice for potential removal.

Can You Prevent Lipomas? What Is The Prognosis?

Unfortunately, there is no known way to prevent the development of lipomas. However, maintaining overall good health through proper diet and exercise may help reduce your risk of developing new ones.

The outlook for individuals with lipomas is excellent. Most people recover fully after removal with minimal scarring or complications. While recurrence is possible in some cases—especially if the entire lipoma isn’t removed—this is rare when performed by experienced dermatologists like those at Utah Valley Dermatology.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

If you have noticed any new lumps or bumps under your skin that are growing quickly or causing pain, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist. At Utah Valley Dermatology in Lehi, Utah, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating benign skin conditions like lipomas.

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If you’re thinking about next steps, get in touch to schedule a consultation.