Can Lipomas Appear Under the Armpit? Treatment and Surgical Options Explained

Q: Can Lipomas Appear Under the Armpit? Treatment and Surgical Options Explained

Concerned individual： Hello, lipomas can appear in the armpit; however, sebaceous adenomas and inflammatory lymph nodes are more common in that area, along with cases of folliculitis. <br>If you want a definitive cure, it is necessary to consult a general surgeon for evaluation,

Lipoma

Can lipomas appear in the armpit? Recently, I noticed a few small hard lumps in my armpit, each about 0.5 centimeters, and I also have some on my abdomen.
Is this condition curable? If it is curable, is surgery the only option? Thank you, doctor.

Danxin de ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/18

Dr. Lin Kecheng reply Surgery

Concerned individual: Hello, lipomas can appear in the armpit; however, sebaceous adenomas and inflammatory lymph nodes are more common in that area, along with cases of folliculitis.
If you want a definitive cure, it is necessary to consult a general surgeon for evaluation, as surgery is the only method for a complete resolution.
Wishing you health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2006/04/18

More Info

Lipomas, which are benign tumors composed of adipose (fat) tissue, can indeed appear in various locations on the body, including under the armpit (axilla). These soft, movable lumps are generally painless and can vary in size. While they are most commonly found on the torso, arms, and thighs, their occurrence in the armpit area is not unusual.
In terms of treatment, lipomas are typically not harmful and often do not require any intervention unless they become bothersome or painful. If your lipomas are small, asymptomatic, and not causing any discomfort, monitoring them may be a reasonable approach. However, if they grow larger, become painful, or you simply wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, surgical options are available.

The primary method for treating lipomas is surgical excision. This procedure involves making an incision over the lipoma and carefully removing it from the surrounding tissue. Surgical removal is generally straightforward and can often be performed on an outpatient basis. The procedure typically results in minimal scarring, especially if the incision is made in a discreet location.
In some cases, lipomas can be removed using liposuction, which involves inserting a thin tube (cannula) through a small incision and suctioning out the fatty tissue. This method may leave less scarring compared to traditional excision, but it may not be suitable for all lipomas, particularly larger ones or those that are deeply embedded in the tissue.

Regarding the possibility of "curing" lipomas, it is important to note that while surgical removal can eliminate the existing lipoma, it does not prevent new ones from forming. Some individuals may be predisposed to developing multiple lipomas due to genetic factors, and in such cases, new lipomas may appear over time even after existing ones have been removed.

If you are considering treatment for your lipomas, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist or a surgeon specializing in soft tissue tumors. They can evaluate your specific situation, discuss the potential risks and benefits of surgery, and help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and medical history.

In summary, lipomas can indeed appear under the armpit, and while they are generally harmless, surgical removal is the most effective treatment if they become bothersome. It is essential to have a thorough evaluation by a medical professional to determine the best course of action tailored to your needs.

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