Lipomas: A Deeper Look At These Benign Fatty Tumors Lipomas are one of the most commonly encountered types of non-cancerous tumors. 

Over the years, these tumors have created both consternation and confusion among medical professionals and those who have lipomas. In this article, we'll take a closer look at lipomas and explain why they're neither dangerous nor cause for great concern.

What are Lipomas?

Lipomas are benign fatty tumors that develop in the soft tissues of the body. You may find single lipomas one or multiple in number. The harmless growths are usually located between the skin and the underlying musculature and they have a lobulated appearance. Lipomas tend to feel rubbery and are generally subcutaneous. Generally, the size of these tumors can range from one-centimenter to seven-centimenter, though they can grow larger in some Cases.

What Causes Lipomas?

It's not entirely certain what causes lipomas to develop, though some doctors believe they might be related to genetics, hormonal imbalances, or even previous injuries. Unfortunately, there is no effective way to completely prevent lipomas, though some researchers suggest that avoiding traumatic injuries and constant weight fluctuations can reduce the risk.

Are Lipomas Dangerous? 

No, lipomas are generally harmless. The tumors themselves are made up of fatty tissue and are thus not usually considered cancerous because they lack the overgrowth of abnormal cells that characterize cancerous tumors. That said, lipomas should not be neglected and medical attention should be sought if any changes are noted.

Diagnosing Lipomas Lipomas can be easily identified through a physical examination. Depending on the severity of the individual tumor, a doctor may order additional tests, such as a CT scan or an ultrasound. These diagnostic tools will help to differentiate between cancerous and noncancerous growths and give a more accurate picture of the tumor.

Treating Lipomas Small lipomas generally do not require treatment and can be monitored over time. However, larger lipomas, or those that cause significant discomfort or get in the way of everyday activities, can be removed surgically. This procedure is known as liposuction and is done under local anesthetic. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the skin, and the contents of the tumor are then sucked out. It is a simple and relatively safe procedure with a very low risk of complications.

Additional Treatment Options Some people opt for alternative treatments such as steroid injections, herbal remedies, and ultrasound therapy. It should be noted that these treatments are generally not recommended by medical professionals and the results are inconclusive at best. They are generally not covered by insurance and should therefore be used as a last resort after consideration of the traditional medical treatments discussed above.

Lipomas can be concerning for those who notice them, however, the reality is that they are generally harmless and can be easily monitored or removed if desired. In most cases, a simple physical examination will be enough to determine if what you are dealing with is a lipoma or something more serious. If a lipoma is present, your doctor can discuss additional testing and available treatments so that you can have the peace of mind that comes with understanding your condition.