Understanding Lipomas

Lipomas are subcutaneous tumors that are asymptomatic and can grow to be rather large in size. With the rise of cancer diagnoses over the past decade, it is always frightening when a lump is discovered under the skin. Bringing any type of lump or growth to the attention of a board certified medical dermatologist is always important to receive an accurate diagnosis and to begin any needed treatment as quickly as possible. Many people who are diagnosed with lipomas have never even heard of this condition. Simply put, lipomas are growths of fatty tissues that occur between the skin and the muscle layers.

Lipomas are generally benign and cause no fearful outcomes. These growths are fairly common in adults, are not tender to the touch, and feel “doughy” – not hard like cancerous lumps. As gross as this may seem to some, lipomas can often be moved or shifted under the skin by manipulating the skin around the growth. Many people are unaware of a lipoma until its growth becomes noticeable, and they only then bring the concern to their doctor.

Lipomas are considered to be “tumors,” yet they rarely qualify as cancerous. In many situations, lipomas do not have to be removed unless patients wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. However, there are times when lipomas can grow large and begin to press on a nerve; this can cause uncomfortable sensations, making the removal of a lipoma necessary. There are also times in which it is not clear whether a tumor or growth is cancerous or not without removing it and having it tested.

At Medical Dermatology Specialists in Atlanta, Dr. Jamie Weisman is a thorough medical dermatologist that you can trust with all of your skin conditions and concerns. Dr. Weisman works with all patients on an individualized basis to provide the appropriate treatment for lipomas. If you have any type of growth on your body, please contact Medical Dermatology Specialists today to schedule an appointment. We are the advanced medical dermatology practice that Atlanta residents trust for effective lipoma treatment and removal.