and Preventing Recurring Lipomas: Causes and Solutions

Repeatedly developing sebaceous cysts?

I previously had an inflamed sebaceous cyst on the outer side of my right buttock near the pelvis twice, but I didn't have surgery.
Now, I have developed another lump on the back of my right thigh that appears to be a sebaceous cyst.
It started small but is growing larger, similar to the one I had before.
I find this very concerning.
Why do these keep recurring, and how can I prevent them?

Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/09

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

There is no way to prevent it; it is a type of constitution.

Reply Date: 2016/05/09

More Info

Lipomas, commonly referred to as fatty tumors, are benign growths composed of adipose (fat) tissue. They are generally soft, movable, and painless, and can occur anywhere on the body, although they are most commonly found on the torso, neck, arms, and thighs. While they are not harmful and do not typically require treatment, many individuals find them bothersome, especially when they grow larger or appear in noticeable areas.

Causes of Lipomas
The exact cause of lipomas is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to their development:
1. Genetics: There is a hereditary component to lipomas. If you have a family history of lipomas, you may be more prone to developing them yourself.

2. Age: Lipomas are most commonly seen in middle-aged adults, typically between the ages of 40 and 60. However, they can occur at any age.

3. Obesity: While lipomas are not directly caused by obesity, there is some evidence to suggest that individuals who are overweight may have a higher likelihood of developing them.

4. Trauma: Some studies suggest that physical trauma to an area may trigger the formation of a lipoma, although this is not universally accepted.

Prevention of Lipomas
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent lipomas from forming, there are some strategies that may help reduce your risk:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Keeping your weight within a healthy range may help minimize the risk of developing lipomas, although this is not a definitive preventive measure.

2. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support overall health and may help in maintaining a healthy weight.

3. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help manage weight and improve overall health, which may indirectly reduce the risk of lipomas.

4. Avoiding Trauma: While not always possible, being cautious to avoid unnecessary trauma to areas of the body may help prevent lipomas from forming in those locations.

Management of Existing Lipomas
If you already have lipomas that are growing or causing discomfort, here are some options to consider:
1. Observation: If the lipoma is not causing any pain or discomfort, your healthcare provider may recommend simply monitoring it over time.

2. Surgical Removal: If a lipoma becomes painful, bothersome, or continues to grow, surgical removal is a common and effective treatment. This is typically a minor outpatient procedure.

3. Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to shrink the lipoma, although this is less common than surgical removal.

4. Consultation with a Specialist: If you have multiple lipomas or are concerned about their appearance or growth, consulting with a dermatologist or a surgeon specializing in soft tissue tumors may provide you with more tailored advice and treatment options.

Conclusion
In summary, while lipomas can be a source of concern for many individuals, they are generally benign and not a cause for alarm. Understanding the potential causes and taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle may help in managing their occurrence. If you find that your lipomas are growing or causing discomfort, it is advisable to seek medical advice for appropriate management options. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Lipoma Formation: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options

When I was a child, I had a lipoma on my arm (which I only learned about when I grew up). After turning 28, I began to develop many lipomas of varying sizes on my body, including my hips, thighs, abdomen, and small arms. A few years ago, I had a 2 cm lipoma removed from my abdome...

Dr. Li Junde reply Surgery
According to your description, Mr. Zhou, your condition appears to be multiple subcutaneous lipomas, which are mostly benign tumors. Unless there are symptoms, cosmetic concerns, or rapid changes in size, they can be monitored over time. If there is no significant change, surgery...

Understanding Lipomas: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention Tips

Hello Dr. Li: Last year, I had a lipoma over 1 cm removed from my back. Not long after, I accidentally discovered a bulge about 8 cm in size on my left calf. I consulted a plastic surgeon who suggested it might also be a lipoma and recommended liposuction for a more even appearan...

Dr. Li Junde reply Surgery
Dear Ms. Kedy, Here are the answers to your questions: 1. Lipomas have a distinct capsule, but this can only be observed during surgery; they may not be palpable upon examination. Lipomas can be multiple, are mostly benign, and a small percentage may be liposarcomas, which are ...

Why Do Lipomas Recur After Surgery? Understanding the Causes

Hello, my friend has had lipomas removed three times. Why do they keep recurring?

Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, people who typically develop lipomas often have multiple lipomas on their bodies, but it is not feasible to remove them all at once, as that would result in numerous wounds. Usually, the larger or symptomatic ones are addressed first. Your friend is likely not experiencing...

Managing Recurring Lipomas: When to Consider Surgery

Hello, doctor. About two months ago, I had a lipoma removed from the fascia of my left lower back. The surgeon mentioned that the lipoma was quite large, but it was successfully excised and confirmed to be benign. However, a month ago, while showering, I discovered another lipoma...

Dr. Lin Zhemin reply Plastic Surgery
First, congratulations on the previous excision being benign. If a new lipoma appears, be mindful of whether it grows rapidly or causes pain, as these symptoms may require early excision. Otherwise, it can be monitored for now.