Discovering a lump under your skin can be unsettling, especially if you’re not sure what it is or what it means. But before you panic, it’s important to know that not all lumps are cause for concern. If you’ve noticed a soft, rubbery bump that moves easily under the skin and isn’t painful, there’s a good chance it could be a lipoma.
While the name might sound unfamiliar, lipomas are actually quite common and, in most cases, completely harmless. Understanding what they are and what to watch for can help put your mind at ease. That being said, let’s take a closer look at what a lipoma is, how to spot one, and when you might want treatment.
What Is a Lipoma?
A lipoma is a soft, fatty, benign skin lump that grows just beneath the skin. It usually feels doughy and moves easily when you press it. Typically made up of fat cells, lipomas are almost always non-cancerous. That doesn’t stop most patients from worrying, especially when they tend to pop up anywhere on the body, especially on the:
- Neck
- Shoulders
- Back
- Arms
- Thighs
Most people find them by accident while getting dressed or taking a shower since they tend to grow slowly and usually don’t cause any pain.
Lipoma vs Cyst: What’s the Difference?
Cysts and lipomas are both common, benign lumps that can develop under the skin, but they differ in their makeup and origin. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that may contain pus, air, or other substances, while lipomas are soft, fatty growths that form between the skin and muscle.
Though they can appear similar, proper diagnosis is important to determine the best treatment. At Rodgers Dermatology, our specialists are highly experienced in identifying and safely removing both cysts and lipomas. Book a consultation today to get expert care.
How to Tell If You Have a Lipoma
Here are a few signs that you might have a lipoma:
- There is a soft lump under your skin.
- The lump moves easily.
- It grows very slowly over time.
- It isn’t painful (although some can hurt if they press on nerves).
- Small, usually around 2 inches, though some lipomas can grow larger.
Keep in mind, not every lump is a lipoma. Other conditions, like cysts or swollen lymph nodes, can look and feel similar. That’s why we recommend having any new lump checked by a dermatologist.
What Causes Lipomas?
There are many reasons a lipoma may form, and sometimes they even appear to form at random. However, certain things can increase your chances:
- Genetics: Lipomas tend to run in families.
- Age: Most people who get lipomas are between 40 and 60 years old.
- Minor injuries: Some lipomas develop after a trauma, like a hard bump or bruise, but this isn’t common.
While lipomas can sometimes seem to appear without warning, understanding the common risk factors can help you stay informed. If you have a family history or notice changes as you age, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on any new lumps and consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
Are Lipomas Dangerous?
Most lipomas are harmless, rarely become cancerous, and often don’t require any treatment. That said, it’s still a good idea to have a dermatologist evaluate the lump, especially if:
- The lump is growing quickly
- It feels hard instead of soft
- It’s painful
- The skin over it changes color
- You notice more than one lump forming
These signs could mean you’re dealing with something other than a simple lipoma, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Treatment Options: Lipoma Removal in Prosper and Frisco
If a lipoma isn’t causing you any discomfort, there’s typically no need for treatment, and in fact, many people choose to simply leave them alone. However, if the lump is painful, growing, or located in a spot that’s uncomfortable or easy to bump, you might consider having it removed.
The most common treatment is a straightforward procedure called a lipoma excision. Here’s what you can expect:
- The area is numbed with local anesthesia
- A small incision is made over the lipoma
- The lump is carefully removed
- The incision is closed with a few stitches
Recovery is usually quick and uncomplicated. Most people can return to their normal routines within a day or two after the procedure. In some cases, such as when a lipoma is particularly large or located deeper within the body, a specialist may recommend a more involved surgical approach to ensure complete and safe removal.
Will the Lipoma Come Back After Removal?
Once a lipoma is removed, it usually doesn’t come back in the same spot. However, some people are prone to developing multiple lipomas over time.
If you’ve had more than one lipoma or have a family history of them, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for any new lumps and get them checked early.
Answering Common Questions About Lipomas
Can I remove a lipoma myself?
No. Trying to remove a lipoma on your own can cause infection, scarring, or more serious problems. Always see a dermatologist for safe removal.
Is a biopsy needed to diagnose a lipoma?
Usually, no. Most lipomas are diagnosed with a simple physical exam. In rare cases, if a lump looks unusual, a biopsy may be recommended.
How fast do lipomas grow?
Lipomas usually grow slowly over months or even years. A fast-growing lump should be checked right away.
Can children get lipomas?
It’s rare but possible for children to get lipomas. Lipomas are much more common in adults.
Why It’s a Good Idea to Get a Lump Checked
Even though most lipomas are harmless, getting a lump checked by a dermatologist gives you peace of mind. It also ensures you’re not overlooking something that needs treatment.
In fast-growing areas like Prosper and established communities like Frisco, where people are busy with work, school, and activities, it’s easy to brush off small health concerns. But catching problems early always makes a difference.
A quick appointment could save you a lot of worry — and if it turns out to be a simple lipoma, you’ll leave with answers and a plan.
Get Expert Care for Lipomas at Rodgers Dermatology in Frisco and Prosper
If you’ve found a lump under your skin and aren’t sure what it is, the team at Rodgers Dermatology is here to help. Our experienced providers in our Frisco or Prosper offices can diagnose lipomas and other skin growths, explain your options, and recommend the best treatment if needed.
Schedule your appointment today by calling 972-704-2400 to schedule your consultation and get clear answers about your skin health.