Lipoma Treatment

Lipoma: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment & FAQs

What is a Lipoma?

A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor formed due to the accumulation of adipose (fat) tissue. It develops slowly and is usually located between the skin and the muscle layer. Lipomas are soft, doughy, and typically non-tender. They can be moved with light finger pressure. Lipomas are most common in middle age but can occur at any age. It’s not rare for individuals to have more than one lipoma on their body.

Note: Lipomas are not cancerous and often don't require treatment unless they cause discomfort or grow in size.

What Causes Lipoma to Form?

The exact cause of lipoma formation is still unclear. However, they tend to run in families, indicating a genetic link. Some health conditions are associated with multiple lipomas:

Dercum’s Disease: Causes painful lipomas, mainly on limbs and trunk.
Gardner Syndrome: A variant of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), causes lipomas and other complications.
Hereditary Multiple Lipomatosis: Inherited condition causing numerous lipomas.
Madelung’s Disease: Seen in men who consume excessive alcohol; lipomas form around neck and shoulders.

How is Lipoma Diagnosed?

To diagnose a lipoma, doctors may perform:

Physical Exam
Biopsy: Removing a tissue sample for lab examination.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans—especially if the lump is large or deep.

Caution: Lipomas are different from liposarcomas, which are rare cancerous tumors in fatty tissue. Liposarcomas grow rapidly, are painful, and are not movable.

How are Lipomas Treated?

Most lipomas don’t require treatment unless they are:

Painful
Growing
Causing cosmetic concern

Treatment Options:

Liposuction: Suction technique for large lipomas mainly composed of fat.
Excision Surgery: Surgically removing the lump along with its capsule.
Steroid Injections: Reduces the size of the lipoma, used for small lipomas.
Punch Hole Excision: For small, superficial lipomas using a punch instrument.
Cryotherapy: Freezes and destroys lipoma tissue with liquid nitrogen.
Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses heat generated from radio waves to destroy tissue.
Laser Therapy: A non-invasive treatment that breaks down fat cells with concentrated laser energy.

Why Choose Lipoma Treatment in India?

Complete treatment transparency
Expert multidisciplinary teams
Hospitals with international accreditations
Affordable and reasonable pricing
Infection-free surgical environments

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which Lipoma Treatment Is the Most Effective?

A: Surgical excision and liposuction are the most common and effective treatments. Excision is preferred for complete removal.

Q: Is Lipoma Curable Non-Operatively?

A: Yes. Laser therapy is a non-invasive option that uses focused laser light to shrink lipomas gradually.

Q: What Is the Surgical Success Rate for Lipomas?

A: Over 90% success rate. Surgical treatment is safe and effective with minimal complications.

Q: Can I Get My Second Lipoma Surgery Without Risk?

A: Yes. If a lipoma reappears or surgery was not successful the first time, a second procedure is safe when performed by a skilled surgeon.