Lipomas are fatty growths underneath the skin and over the layer of muscle. They are most often found on the back, shoulders, and the arms, but they can also grow on the body. They are benign and painless, but they can become painful if they continue to grow or when they push against nerves or blood vessels. Lipomas can be small in size, ranging from 2 to 3 cm or larger around 10 cm. The larger the lipoma, the more likely the removal will be difficult and may leave behind a scar. Since lipomas are fatty tissue that can grow in size over time, our dermatologists typically recommend prompt removal to limit any issues or concerns.
Lipomas are often mistaken for cysts, but a definitive diagnosis cannot be made until the tumor is removed and examined by a pathologist. A lipoma can develop at any age, but most peo-ple don’t get them until adulthood. They can be hereditary, but they can form for any reason. They can develop at the site of a previous trauma.
Lipoma Treatment Involves Surgical Removal
Dermatologists can remove lipomas if they keep growing or become bothersome. Our certified dermatologists examine the lipoma and will decide the best course of action to take to remove it. The treatments include a simple procedure of surgically removing the tumor. Most smaller growths can be removed in our Orange County dermatologist’s office with local anesthesia, while larger growths may be referred to a specialist.The procedure can take as little as fifteen to twenty minutes, and you can go back to your normal schedule the same day.
