Lipoma Diagnosis and Removal in London

Understanding Lipomas

Lipomas are one of the most common benign soft tissue growths, composed of mature fat cells (adipocytes). They typically develop in the subcutaneous layer just beneath the skin, though in rare cases, they can form deeper within muscle tissue. Lipomas are usually soft, doughy to the touch, and mobile when pressed, which helps distinguish them from other growths.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of lipoma formation remains unclear, but several factors increase the likelihood of developing them:

• Genetics: Family history plays a significant role. Multiple lipomas may occur in inherited conditions such as familial multiple lipomatosis.
• Age: Lipomas are most often diagnosed in middle-aged adults between 30 and 60 years.
• Gender: Slightly more common in men.
• Trauma: Some patients report lipomas forming after an injury, though this link is not fully proven.
• Associated syndromes: Rare conditions like Gardner’s syndrome and Madelung’s disease can feature multiple lipomas.

Symptoms of Lipomas

Most lipomas cause no symptoms, but their features include:

• Soft, round, rubbery lumps under the skin
• Movable when touched, not attached to deeper tissues
• Usually painless, though they may be tender if pressing on nearby nerves
• Most commonly found on the shoulders, upper back, arms, thighs, and neck
• Slow-growing, typically remaining under 5cm, though giant lipomas may exceed 10cm

Lipoma Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually straightforward after a physical examination. In cases where the lump is unusually large, painful, or rapidly growing, imaging such as ultrasound or MRI may be performed to confirm it is benign. If there is any doubt, a biopsy may be required to exclude liposarcoma, a rare malignant tumour.

Lipoma Treatment Options

Most lipomas do not require treatment unless they are painful, restrict movement, or cause cosmetic concern. Options include:

• Surgical removal: Excision under local anaesthetic is the gold standard, offering complete removal and minimal recurrence.
• Liposuction: In selected cases, particularly with larger lipomas, liposuction can be used, though some tissue may remain.
• Observation: If the lipoma is small and asymptomatic, monitoring without treatment is a safe option.

Living with Lipomas

While benign, lipomas can cause anxiety due to their resemblance to more serious growths. Regular monitoring and prompt medical evaluation of any changes — such as rapid growth, pain, or hardness — are important. Surgical removal is safe and effective, and most patients heal quickly with minimal scarring.

Your first visit — what to expect

1. History taking: Review of symptoms, family history, and duration of the lump.
2. Examination: Clinical assessment of the lump’s size, texture, and mobility.
3. Investigations: Imaging or biopsy if the lump has unusual features.
4. Treatment planning: Discussion of whether removal is needed and which technique is most suitable.
5. Follow-up: Monitoring for healing or recurrence if surgery is performed.

Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 21 August 2025