Lipoma

A lipoma is a benign tumor composed of fatty tissue. These lumps develop beneath the skin and are most commonly found on the neck, arms, thighs, and shoulders. These common growths can be evaluated and treated with a lipoma treatment in Shrewsbury at Skin Dermatology.

Lipoma Removal: A Route to Confidence

Because lipomas are benign growths, they are not cancerous and are very rarely dangerous. While there often is no medical need to remove lipomas, they can be a bit of eyesore or make one feel self-conscious. Our board-certified medical dermatologist, Dr. Alissa Lamoureux, can remove lipomas to allow you to feel more comfortable and confident.

How Can I

Spot a Lipoma?

There are several different types of skin growths. While some are harmless, it is crucial to have any new growths examined by a dermatologist. Some of the most common characteristics of a lipoma include: soft to the touch, slow-growing, colorless, and just reside under the skin. There is rarely pain associated with lipoma treatment in Shrewsbury unless it is compressing nerves beneath the skin or has an associated blood supply to it.

What Causes Lipomas?

While many people struggle with lipomas, their cause is generally unknown. There are some genetic factors, and those with a family history of lipomas are more likely to develop them. Lipomas can appear in people of all ages but are most common in those between 40 and 60.

Are Lipomas Dangerous?

Lipomas are benign, so they rarely pose a risk. Because they are non-cancerous, treatment for them is not required. If you are concerned about a bump that may be a lipoma, you can contact our office to have it examined.

How a Lipoma Is Diagnosed

The first step in removing lipoma is diagnosis. This begins with a physical exam by Dr. Alissa Lamoureux, our board-certified dermatologist. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed. A small sample of tissue is taken and sent to a lab for further testing during a biopsy.

This is done to entirely rule out any possibilities of cancer and ensure that the growth is, in fact, lipoma. After the examination for lipoma treatment in the Worcester, MA area, your dermatologist can explain your options for removal and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

How a Lipoma Is Removed

While a lipoma doesn’t need to be removed, there may be personal reasons for wanting to do so. This could be due to cosmetic reasons, self-confidence, or pain. A dermatologist is able to remove the lipoma with in-office surgery.

Surgery

Surgically removing lipoma is the most common treatment method. The procedure is referred to as excision and is done under a local anesthetic with the patient awake. Even with surgical removal, there is a possibility the lipoma may grow back.

Your Skin Dermatology Treatment

Skin Dermatology proudly serves the Shrewsbury and Worcester, MA area. We are a dermatology practice on a mission to provide a full range of dermatologic services while treating patients in a modern, spa-like environment. Helmed by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alissa Lamoureux, Skin Dermatology aims to provide a retreat-like atmosphere rather than feeling like a traditional doctor’s office. If you are concerned about lipoma or are interested in lipoma removal, contact our office today!