Have you ever felt a soft, squishy lump under your skin that seems to move a little when you press it? You might be dealing with a lipoma—a harmless, fatty growth that usually doesn’t cause any health problems but can be a bit annoying, especially if it’s in a visible spot like your forehead or neck. Let’s take a closer look at what lipomas are, why they form, and when you might want to consider having them removed.
A Fresno dermatologist can evaluate lipomas on visible or uncomfortable areas and explain removal options.
What is a Lipoma?
A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) lump made up of fat cells that grow slowly beneath your skin. They can develop anywhere on the body, but they’re most common in areas like the:
- Neck
- Back
- Shoulders
- Upper arms
- Thighs
These lumps are typically painless, soft to the touch, and easy to move around when you press on them. Lipomas generally stay small—about the size of a pea—but in some cases, they can grow larger, sometimes up to several inches across.
Why Do Lipomas Form?
The exact cause of lipomas isn’t entirely understood, but genetics seem to play a significant role. If you have family members with lipomas, you’re more likely to develop them yourself. They tend to form in adults between the ages of 40 and 60, and they occur equally in men and women.
Are Lipomas Dangerous?
Lipomas are almost always harmless. They grow slowly, don’t spread to other areas of the body, and don’t pose any health risks. In fact, many people live with lipomas for years without any problems. However, if a lipoma presses on a nerve or grows in an area where it rubs against clothing, it can cause some discomfort or irritation. But in most cases, the biggest concern with lipomas is aesthetics.
When Do People Get Lipomas Removed?
Even though lipomas are benign, many people choose to have them removed for various reasons. Anne Roberts, MD, is a Board Certified Surgeon and an essential part of the Valley Skin Institute team. We are grateful to have her expertise in removing benign and malignant tumors. You’re in good hands if you choose to have a lipoma removed. The most common reasons patients seek removal at VSI include:
- Aesthetic Concerns: Lipomas on the forehead, face, neck, or other visible areas can make people feel self-conscious. For instance, a noticeable bump on your forehead can be hard to ignore, especially when you look in the mirror or interact with others.
- Discomfort: A lipoma pressing on a nerve or muscle might cause mild discomfort or pain. This is more likely if the lipoma is in an area where it gets bumped frequently, such as your back or shoulders.
- Size: While most lipomas stay small, some can grow and become more noticeable over time. Even if the lipoma isn’t causing physical discomfort, its size might become bothersome in these cases.
- Location: Lipomas that develop in areas where they can be irritated by clothing—like the neck, shoulders, or waistline—are more likely to be removed because they can cause constant annoyance.
How are Lipomas Removed?
If your lipoma is causing discomfort or if you’re unhappy with how it looks, removing it is a straightforward option. The procedure is typically quick and done under local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but won’t feel any pain. Here’s how it works:
- Incision: Your doctor will make a small cut over the lipoma.
- Removal: The lipoma is carefully removed from beneath the skin.
- Closure: After the lipoma is removed, the incision is stitched up.
The process usually takes less than an hour, and recovery is fairly quick. You’ll likely have a small scar, but the lipoma itself will be gone, giving you peace of mind and, in many cases, a cosmetic improvement.
Can Lipomas Come Back?
Once removed, lipomas usually don’t come back. However, in some rare cases, lipomas can recur in the same spot or develop in new areas of the body. If this happens, your dermatologist can assess whether another removal is necessary.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you discover a lump under your skin and aren’t sure what it is, it’s always a good idea to have it checked out by a professional. While lipomas are generally harmless, other conditions like cysts or more serious tumors can sometimes present similarly. Here are some signs it’s time to schedule a consultation:
- The lump changes size or shape.
- The lipoma becomes painful or starts causing discomfort.
- The lump is located in a highly visible area and is affecting your self-confidence.
If you’re dealing with a lipoma or have concerns about a lump under your skin, don’t hesitate to request an appointment at Valley Skin Institute. We’re here to help you feel comfortable and confident in your skin!
