Everyone dreams of having flawless skin, but moles, freckles, bumps, and lumps often cause imperfection and dissatisfaction. Some of these skin abnormalities are innocuous, while others can hint at an underlying medical condition. Singaporeans have recently seen an increase in skin conditions, which doesn’t imply those never existed before. It means that people are more aware today and openly discuss these topics. At the same time, a desire for smooth and even-toned skin has also made them more vigilant about their physical attributes.
Nevertheless, what is it that concerns you about your skin? Is a tumorous growth under the skin a cause of worry for you? It can be a case of lipoma. Your fear can stem from little or no knowledge about this. So, let’s delve into this skin condition quickly.
Overview of lipoma
These benign or harmless tumours grow because of the growth of the fatty tissues. Plastic surgeons can identify them by their soft touch, round shape, painless formation, etc. Just check if the lumpy growth under your skin shifts when you touch it. In that case, you can assume it to be a lipoma. Such tumours are detached from the skin planes and move with a touch. You can notice such growth anywhere in your body, particularly on the upper side, such as the neck, trunk, and upper arm. Other commonly affected areas include buttocks and thighs. Adults in their 40s and 60s can experience them more. But kids and young adults are also not spared. This skin disorder is generally genetic.
An expert surgeon can define your lipoma type by shape and other characteristics. Based on their observation and diagnosis, they can refer to it as fibro-lipomas, hibernoma, lipoblastoma, myxolipomas, or others. However, they are broadly classified as cutaneous or superficial and deep lipomas.
The solution for lipoma
Lipoma treatment depends on its nature, the plastic surgeon’s diagnosis, symptoms, and more. These growths can be hereditary or caused by overweight, injury, medical condition, or drinking. As mentioned, you can detect them due to their appearance as soft, round, bulging formations under the skin. When you meet a plastic surgeon, they will ask about your family history, examine your physical health, recommend a biopsy, etc. Some patients may have to go for an MRI or CT scan.
A thorough check-up eliminates the risk of misunderstanding the skin condition. For example, liposarcoma tends to be cancerous and may resemble lipomas. They grow faster and remain in their place. You can also find them painful.
Benign tumours or lipomas can resolve on their own. However, the specialist can suggest surgical removal if they grow in some regions of your body that restrict your movement and make you uncomfortable. One can also get them removed for aesthetic purposes. During surgery, a plastic surgeon makes a small opening in the skin to excise the lump. They conduct this procedure after administering local anaesthesia. The operation can take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size, number, and location.
Lipoma removal is the best way to eliminate the lump permanently or for a long time. There are other treatments also, but their effects are short-lived. Tumours can reappear, and you may need to get them treated again.
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