Lipomas are soft, rubbery lumps that typically grows beneath the skin. They are most often found on the neck, shoulders, back, and arms.
They can appear as smooth, movable masses that are usually painless. Despite their sometimes concerning appearance, lipomas are benign.
This means that they are non-cancerous and do not pose a serious health threat on their own. Most lipomas grow slowly and remain small.
However, they can sometimes become uncomfortable if they press on nerves or tissues. In this case, you may want to ask about lipoma removal cost in Singapore to plan for their removal.
Although their appearance might worry some individuals, lipomas rarely cause harm. They are usually discovered during a routine physical examination or noticed when they gradually increase in size. While they rarely interfere with daily life, cosmetic concerns or the rare occurrence of discomfort may also motivate some people to seek treatment.
What is Inside a Lipoma?
A lipoma is made up mainly of mature fat cells, which are similar to the adipose tissue that exists naturally throughout the body. The encapsulated mass is typically uniform in texture and soft to the touch.
Inside a lipoma, fat cells are arranged in a lobular pattern that is enclosed by a thin, fibrous capsule. This capsule helps to keep the fatty tissue together and makes the lipoma distinct from the surrounding tissues.
The fat cells inside a lipoma are not different from normal fat in other parts of the body. However, they proliferate in a localized area.
The structure of a lipoma is usually simple, which is one reason why it is considered benign. Occasionally, imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI are used to observe the internal structure of a lipoma.
These diagnostic tools can confirm that the lump is indeed a lipoma and not another type of soft tissue tumor. Generally, the internal composition is homogeneous, which helps doctors determine that it does not exhibit aggressive behavior.
When Should a Lipoma Be Removed?
Many lipomas do not require treatment. However, there are certain circumstances when removal may be recommended.
Before a decision is made to remove a lipoma, your doctor may want to take time to assess the size, location, and behavior of the lipoma over time. Changes in the lipoma’s size, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns can signal that it might be time to seek removal. Here are some key reasons why a lipoma should be removed:
Discomfort and Functional Interference
A lipoma may need to be removed if it causes pain or interferes with normal movement. Even though lipomas are benign, their location can affect nearby nerves or muscles.
If a lipoma presses on nerves, it can cause effects like tingling and numbness in the nearby areas. It can also cause weakness in the adjacent area.
What’s more, if it is situated near a joint, it may restrict movement or cause discomfort during everyday activities. Removing the lipoma can relieve these symptoms and restore normal function.
Cosmetic Reasons and Emotional Impact
For some people, the appearance of a lipoma, particularly in visible areas like the face, neck, or arms, can lead to self-consciousness and reduced self-esteem. In these cases, the emotional and psychological impact of having an unsightly lump is a valid reason for removal.
Even though the lipoma is medically harmless, it can affect personal confidence and quality of life. A doctor can offer removal options that improve appearance while minimizing scarring.
Rapid Growth or Changes in Appearance
Most lipomas are slow-growing. So, a sudden increase in size or changes in their texture or shape may warrant removal.
Rapid growth can be a sign of a rare transformation or simply an unusual behavior of the lipoma. It is recommendable to get any rapid or unexpected changes checked by a knowledgeable doctor.
Removing the lipoma in such instances not only gets rid of any potential risks but also prevents future complications. Timely treatment is often the best approach in these cases.
Uncertainty in Diagnosis
When a lipoma exhibits atypical characteristics, additional testing may be needed to rule out other conditions. Even though a majority of these lumps are benign, your provider may suggest removal if the diagnosis is uncertain.
A biopsy performed after removal can confirm the benign nature of the tissue. This not only provides peace of mind but also ensures that the proper treatment is pursued without delay.
Can I Get Rid of a Lipoma Without Surgery?
There has been growing interest in non-surgical alternatives for lipoma treatment. And, while surgical removal is the most common method, there are non-invasive options available.
Many people prefer avoiding surgery due to the fear of scarring, extended recovery times, or other complications. Non-surgical methods are typically chosen for small lipomas that do not cause discomfort or functional impairment. Here are some non-surgical treatment options that may help with lipoma removal:
- Injection Lipolysis: Injection lipolysis involves the use of chemical agents, like deoxycholic acid, to break down fat cells within the lipoma. The chemical solution works by dissolving the fat, and the body naturally reabsorbs and eliminates the debris over time. This method is not as immediately dramatic as surgical removal. Nonetheless, it offers a minimally invasive alternative that can be repeated if necessary to achieve desired results.
- Liposuction Techniques: Liposuction is another technique that can target lipomas without the need for wide surgical incisions. In this procedure, a small cannula is used to suction out the fatty tissue from the lipoma. The advantages of liposuction include smaller incisions, reduced recovery time, and less scarring compared to traditional surgery. However, it is important to note that liposuction may not always completely remove the capsule of the lipoma, which could result in a recurrence.
Final Thoughts
Lipomas are generally benign, soft lumps that rarely pose serious health risks. However, they may warrant removal when they cause discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or show unusual changes. While non-surgical methods can be effective for some, they may not always achieve complete removal.
If you have a lipoma that is bothering you and you are considering treatment we’ll be happy to offer guidance. If you’re in Singapore, get in touch with us below for a personalized consultation.
Alpine Surgical Practice – Dr Aaron Poh | Colonoscopy | Gallstones Removal Singapore
3 Mount Elizabeth, #14-06 Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
+65 6322 7323
