A lipoma is a benign fatty lump that forms beneath the skin. These growths are soft, slow-growing, and usually harmless, often appearing on the arms, legs, back, or forehead. Many people live with lipomas for years without experiencing any issues, and in most cases, they do not require treatment.
However, some people worry about whether a lipoma could become dangerous or indicate a more serious condition. While lipomas themselves are not cancerous, certain signs – such as rapid growth, pain, or changes in texture – may require medical assessment to rule out other conditions.
Can a Lipoma Become Dangerous?
In most cases, lipomas are completely harmless and do not pose a health risk. They are benign tumours of fat cells that do not spread to other areas of the body or develop into cancer. However, certain factors may indicate the need for medical evaluation.
When Lipomas Are Harmless
A typical lipoma:
- Grows slowly over months or years
- Feels soft and movable under the skin
- Does not cause pain or discomfort
- Remains small, usually between 1-3 cm in size
If a lipoma meets these characteristics, it is unlikely to require treatment unless removal is desired for cosmetic reasons.
Rare Complications and Warning Signs
Although most lipomas do not cause issues, some may press on nerves, blood vessels, or muscles, leading to discomfort or restricted movement. In rare cases, what appears to be a lipoma could be a different type of growth, such as a liposarcoma, a malignant (cancerous) tumour of fatty tissue.
Warning signs that warrant a medical evaluation include:
- Rapid growth or sudden size increase
- Pain, tenderness, or inflammation
- Firm, hard, or irregular texture rather than soft and movable
- Deep-seated lipomas that affect movement or muscle function
While cancerous fatty tumours (liposarcomas) are rare, a specialist assessment can help confirm whether a lump is a simple lipoma or requires further investigation.
When to See a Doctor About a Lipoma
Most lipomas do not require medical attention, but certain changes may indicate the need for an evaluation. While benign lipomas remain soft, slow-growing, and painless, other types of lumps can mimic their appearance. Identifying the difference is important for ensuring appropriate care.
Signs That Require Medical Assessment
A doctor should assess a lipoma if it:
- Grows rapidly or suddenly changes in size
- Becomes painful, tender, or inflamed
- Feels hard, firm, or fixed to deeper tissues
- Is located in a sensitive area, such as near nerves or muscles, causing discomfort or restricted movement
- Develops in multiples, as certain genetic conditions can lead to clusters of lipomas
A physical examination is often enough to diagnose a lipoma, but in some cases, ultrasound or imaging tests may be recommended to confirm its nature.
Differences Between a Lipoma and Other Lumps
Not all lumps under the skin are lipomas. Some conditions that may resemble a lipoma include:
- Cysts – Fluid-filled sacs that can become inflamed or infected.
- Liposarcoma – A rare cancerous tumour of fatty tissue that grows quickly and may feel firm.
- Fibromas – Benign connective tissue growths that are typically harder in texture.
At City Dermatology Clinic, plastic surgeons like Mr Parviz Sadigh, Mr Georgios Pafitanis, Mr Vincenzo Ottaviano, and Dr Jana Torres-Grau specialise in assessing and treating lipomas, ensuring an accurate diagnosis and personalised care plan.
If there is any uncertainty about a lump, a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon can provide reassurance and guidance on whether treatment is necessary.
Treatment and Removal Options
While most lipomas do not require removal, some people choose treatment for cosmetic reasons or if the lump causes discomfort. The best approach depends on the size, location, and whether the lipoma is causing any issues.
When Is Removal Necessary?
A lipoma removal may need removal if it:
- Continues growing and becomes large or noticeable
- Causes pain or discomfort, especially if pressing on nerves or muscles
- Restricts movement, particularly if located in an area affecting mobility
- Affects facial symmetry, such as on the forehead, where cosmetic concerns are common
Surgical Excision
The most effective and permanent solution for lipoma removal is surgical excision. This involves:
- Making a small incision over the lipoma
- Removing the entire lump, including its capsule, to prevent recurrence
- Closing the incision with sutures, minimising scarring
This procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia and has a short recovery time. Stitches are usually removed within 5 to 7 days, and while a faint scar may remain, proper aftercare helps reduce its visibility over time.
At City Dermatology Clinic, plastic surgeons like Mr Parviz Sadigh, Mr Georgios Pafitanis, Mr Vincenzo Ottaviano, and Dr Jana Torres-Grau perform lipoma removals with a focus on precision and minimal scarring.
Liposuction as an Alternative
For larger lipomas, liposuction may be an option to reduce bulk while leaving a smaller scar. However, since this method does not always remove the entire lipoma capsule, there is a higher chance of recurrence compared to surgical excision.
Choosing the Right Treatment
A consultation with a specialist is the best way to determine the most suitable treatment. Whether removal is for medical reasons or personal preference, our team at City Dermatology Clinic provides expert advice on the safest and most effective approach.
