Cause and treatments for lipomas

I wonder if any studies have been done to prevent or offer an alternative cure or treatment for 'LIPOMAS'

I have just been told that the lipoma that is on the muscle area of my jaw is nothing to be concern about. It is in the area of the outer jaw (cheek) and into the neck behind the jaw. The size seems rather large to me and not certain if it is growing. The doctor said that it may have been there awhile (I found it in April of this year). She said that it would be considered "cosmetic" if a plastic surgeon removed it. I do not like th idea that it is there if there is any chance of it becoming malignant and spreading. I am concerned even if she is not, if you know what I mean.

This is an old thread, but I have a new question. Who should I see to have a rather large lipoma removed from my side? I realize I’ll need to see my primary first. It was diagnosed (biopsied) about 20 years ago and never gave me trouble, but after my recent weight loss…it’s quite painful. Wakes me up. Have to sleep on cushion on that side…so hope insurance will cover it.

I’ve seen plenty of Dr. Pimple Popper removals, but I can’t imagine my dermatologist doing it. It’s rather large and I’d prefer an experienced person to do it with local anesthetic. I called a local top plastic surgeon, who’s in my network, but it’s too minor for him.

Any input would be appreciated. It’s quite painful, so I’d like to see someone pretty soon.

Hi @celia, My husband had a lipoma removed at the dermatologist’s office. It was a small surgery with minimal scarring. The removal was covered by insurance with no problem.
Considering the size, your primary care physician can help make the determination on who to see for this but a dermatologist is the most likely doctor to get you comfortable with this lipoma.
Has it changed size over the years?

It may be slightly larger, but it’s probably getting more pressure on it now, since my torso has much less fat on it. I’ve lost 65 pounds.

I see a dermatology PA at a very large teaching hospital in Durham, NC (not sure we can post provider names) and I like her fine. She’s been quite helpful, but I don’t think she could perform surgery. Not on something like this. I would estimate it as half the size of a softball. I wish I could have Dr. Sandra Lee to do it, but I don’t want to be on tv. Lol

Because it’s near my breast and ribs, I suspect they’ll order some kind of imaging.

Congratulations on your weight loss…if it was intentional. 😉. That’s not easy to do! I lost 40 pounds (the hard way with chemo! LOL) so I know how losing that much weight can impact actions like sitting or lying down! My buns are not happy on hard chairs anymore! So I can imagine how difficult it is for you to sleep on your side with the size of the lipoma.

I’d really encourage you to go see the dermatologist with whom you’ve had experience. You may not need a referral for her seeing that you’re already a patient. She’d be a good judge as to how to proceed and whether this is something she can do or not. She’d be in the position to get the right doctor for you if she can’t do this procedure.

Hah, I saw about 10 minutes of the Pimple Popper and I was done!! LOL Right up there next to the Home Surgery Channel! I think you’re better off heading to your own doctor without the 15 minutes of fame. 😅

Make the call…sleep is precious, right?

Yeah, I can’t imagine being seen on tv getting my side cut open. Lol But, Dr. Lee has done hundreds, if not thousands of these things. Many larger than mine.

My weight loss was intentional. I am on a fitness journey. I have a tight diet and intense workout schedule, despite the health issues I’ve encountered lately, post covid syndrome, GI issues, anxiety and neuro symptoms . (The reasons that brought me to this site. ).

I sure am sorry about your chemo. Hope you’re doing better. That sounds really rough.

I’ll definitely pursue the matter. It also occurred to me that the hospital’s dermatology cancer surgeon might be available. He’s the only surgeon listed as provider on their dermatology provider page. He has a fantastic reputation. He did my Moh’s surgery in 2022. He does other types too. This might be too basic for him, though.

Thanks for your input.

Good morning, @celia16 Wow, you are to be commended for your amazing fitness/wellness journey and taking charge of your health! Your story will be so encouraging to anyone who has felt there can be nothing done to change lifestyles, weight and confidence. The personal reward for setting challenges and goals, and meeting them is so valuable! It’s not easy pushing forward with your program when you’re not feeling well, but you are a force for sure!! I hope you’re able to find some answers for the other symptoms you’re having.
As for my weight loss, I’m doing fine. My cancer issues are far behind me and I’m feeling amazingly healthy and fit. So no worries there.

Your dermatologist will be able to get the ball rolling for your lipoma removal. it sounds like you have a really good clinic that you’re affiliated with. So let them take the lead and they’ll direct you to the right person for the job. I wish you well with this and I hope you’ll let me know how this all turns out for you. ☺️ Hugs, Lori

Thanks for the kind words. Glad you’re better now.

I appreciate your encouragement. A lot of people comment on my transformation and it feels good. I’ve started a journal and have been taking photos of me at the gym each week. I plan to put something together when I reach my goal, just for my own use. I want to pursue certification of some sort to teach fitness and wellness. I think I can do it, if my health holds out. I’ve practiced law for many years, so this would be a big career change. Lol.

@floann I hear you!