A lipoma is a benign tumor made up of fat cells that forms just beneath the skin.

It typically appears as:

• A soft, rubbery lump
• A growth that moves easily under the skin
• A painless or minimally tender mass

Lipomas can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the neck, shoulders, back, arms, and thighs.

The exact cause of lipomas is not fully understood.

Possible contributing factors include:

• Genetic predisposition
• Family history
• Minor trauma in some cases

Lipomas are not cancerous and do not typically become cancerous.

Lipomas usually develop slowly and may remain stable for years.

They are often:

• Round or oval in shape
• Soft to the touch
• Freely movable under the skin

Most are painless, although larger lipomas or those pressing on nearby structures may cause discomfort.

Clinical Evaluation

Diagnosis is often made through a physical examination.

The characteristic feel and mobility of the growth help distinguish lipomas from other types of lesions.

Imaging When Needed

In certain cases—particularly for larger or deeper growths—imaging studies may be recommended to further evaluate the lesion.

Biopsy When Indicated

If there is any uncertainty about the diagnosis, a biopsy may be performed to confirm that the growth is benign.

Observation

Most lipomas do not require treatment and can be safely monitored over time.

Observation is appropriate when the lipoma is:

• Small
• Asymptomatic
• Stable in size

Patients are advised to return if there are changes in the growth.

Surgical Removal

Removal may be recommended when a lipoma:

• Becomes painful or uncomfortable
• Increases in size
• Interferes with movement or daily activities
• Is cosmetically bothersome
• Raises diagnostic concern

Surgical excision involves removing the entire lipoma, typically under local anesthesia.

This approach minimizes the likelihood of recurrence.

Lipoma removal is performed in the office and is generally straightforward.

During the procedure:

• The area is numbed with local anesthesia
• A small incision is made
• The lipoma is carefully removed
• The incision is closed with sutures

The procedure is tailored to the size and location of the lipoma, with attention to minimizing scarring.

Recovery is typically uncomplicated.

Patients may experience:

• Mild soreness or swelling
• A small incision that heals over one to two weeks
• Sutures that are removed within a defined timeframe

Most patients return to normal activities quickly, with minor limitations depending on the location of the procedure.

When a lipoma is completely removed, recurrence is uncommon. However, some patients may develop new lipomas in other areas over time.

Evaluation is appropriate for patients who:

• Notice a new or growing lump under the skin
• Have a mass that is changing or becoming symptomatic
• Want confirmation of a benign diagnosis
• Are considering removal

Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate management.

At Treiber Dermatology, lipomas are managed with a focus on diagnostic clarity and individualized care.

Patients are guided through the decision of whether to observe or remove the growth, based on symptoms and preferences.

When removal is performed, careful technique is used to optimize both medical and cosmetic outcomes.

Patients throughout New York and Connecticut choose Treiber Dermatology for lipoma evaluation and treatment because of the practice’s expertise in dermatologic surgery and diagnosis.

Care is known for being:

• Precise and detail-oriented
• Focused on accurate diagnosis
• Efficient and minimally invasive
• Tailored to individual needs

The emphasis is on providing clear guidance and effective care.