Lipomas are fatty tumors that develop under your skin. They’re noncancerous and vary in size, but can affect your appearance if they grow large or you have multiple growths. The board-certified dermatologists at Northstar Dermatology in North Richland Hills specialize in diagnosing and treating lipomas. To schedule an examination, call the office or book online today.
A lipoma is a benign fatty tumor that develops between your skin and muscle. Lipomas are common but tend to affect women more often than men.
You may be at risk of developing a lipoma if they run in your family, you’re obese, or you have a history of hyperlipidemia or diabetes.
Researchers are still investigating what causes someone to develop a lipoma, but theorize that they may occur due to various genetic mutations that trigger the formation of the fatty tumor.
Lipomas present as nodules under the skin that feel soft and doughy. They can grow anywhere on your body, but most often develop on the torso, shoulders, or arms. The tumors tend to grow slowly and don’t usually cause pain unless they push against nerves or blood vessels.
Lipomas are typically harmless. However, you should consult with Northstar Dermatology whenever you develop an unexplained growth under your skin.
You can expect a thorough evaluation at Northstar Dermatology when you come in for a diagnosis for the lump under your skin. During your exam, your dermatologist reviews your symptoms, medical history, and family history. Then, they examine your lump.
Though Northstar Dermatology can often provide a diagnosis after your physical exam, they may request diagnostic testing to confirm the lump you have is a lipoma. Testing may include X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or a biopsy of the lump.
Your provider at Northstar Dermatology develops an individualized treatment plan for your lipoma based on its location, size, and your symptoms. If your lipoma isn’t causing symptoms, they may recommend monitoring the growth.
However, if your lipoma is large, causes pain, or affects your appearance, the dermatologists at Northstar Dermatology perform a surgical excision to remove the benign tumor.
Your surgical excision is performed at the office under local anesthesia. If your lipoma is large, Northstar Dermatology may refer you to a surgeon for further evaluation.
To schedule an examination of your lipoma, call Northstar Dermatology or book online today.
