How Serious is Lipoma?

Lipomas are benign, fatty lumps and are common. They can develop anywhere you have fat cells, although they most often appear on the neck, chest, back, shoulders, arms, and thighs. They appear in approximately one of every 1,000 people. 

While the exact cause of lipomas is usually unknown, some families have a genetic tendency to develop them. In most cases, lipomas don’t require removal. However, removal may be considered if they become painful or if their appearance is bothersome.

Our team at Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, in Jackson, Mississippi, wants you to get any mysterious lumps or bumps checked out. If yours turns out to be a lipoma, here’s what you should know.

About lipoma

A lipoma is a soft, fatty lump that grows under the skin and feels slightly rubbery. It tends to grow slowly over time and is often painless or only mildly uncomfortable. These noncancerous growths are made up of fat cells. Lipomas are usually smaller than two inches in diameter but can grow larger in rare cases.

Lipomas are benign

Generally, lipomas are not serious. They are benign, meaning they are noncancerous and don’t spread to other parts of the body. Lipomas also typically don’t pose any health risks and rarely cause pain. 

Lipomas can become problematic if they grow large enough to be noticeable or uncomfortable. In some cases, they may press on nerves or other tissues.

Lipomas can be removed if they’re causing discomfort, affecting your range of motion, or if you simply prefer to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.

When to consider lipoma removal

Most lipomas don’t require medical treatment. However, you may want to consult with us if:

• The lipoma is painful or tender
• It’s growing quickly or changing shape
• It affects your daily activities or mobility

In rare cases, a lipoma can be mistaken for a liposarcoma — a cancerous tumor in fatty tissue. Our team may recommend imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI to rule out this more serious condition. 

Treating lipoma

If a lipoma is causing discomfort or growing larger, surgical removal is a straightforward and safe option. We perform this procedure on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia, and you go home the same day. 

At Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, we’re here to help you feel comfortable, informed, and confident about your options for any surgical needs. If you’ve discovered a new lump and aren’t sure what it is, feel free to reach out to us for a consultation. Reach out by phone today or use the online tool to talk to our expert team.