Lipoma Treatment in Columbus, Ohio
Lipomas are benign lumps of fatty tissue that form beneath the skin, often found on the neck, shoulders, back, or arms. These slow-growing growths are usually harmless, but they can cause discomfort or become noticeable if they increase in size. At Rixis Dermatology in Columbus, Ohio, we provide thorough evaluations and removal options for lipomas that affect your quality of life or aesthetic preferences.
Understanding Lipomas
A lipoma is typically soft, doughy, and moves easily when touched. Lipomas usually remain small, though some can become large enough to interfere with daily activities, such as wearing backpacks or clothing. While most lipomas do not pose a health risk, professional assessment ensures that the lump is indeed a lipoma and not a different type of growth. Weight loss does not reduce the size of lipomas, as they have a distinct capsule separate from normal fat.
Our Approach to Lipoma Removal
Lipoma removal may be covered by insurance if the growth is painful, restricts movement, or exhibits suspicious features. If removal is primarily cosmetic, coverage may be limited. We offer surgical excision, cutting out the entire lipoma along with its capsule under local anesthesia. This method has a low recurrence rate.
Why Choose Rixis Dermatology?
Accurate Identification: We confirm you have a lipoma instead of a cyst or other mass that may require alternate treatment.
Safe, In-Office Procedure: We create a sterile environment to reduce infection risk and optimize healing.
Honest Guidance: We help you decide whether removal is medically necessary or purely elective based on lipoma size and symptoms.
Continuum of Care: We handle everything from preoperative consultation to post-removal follow-up for a streamlined experience.
Schedule Your Lipoma Evaluation Today
If you have a bothersome lump that you suspect is a lipoma, contact Rixis Dermatology to arrange an evaluation. Our team will help determine if removal is right for you.
Learn More About Lipomas
To learn more about what causes lipomas, how they are removed, and to use our Skin Spot Self Checker tool, visit our Lipoma Education Page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my lump is a lipoma or something else?
Lipomas are typically soft and movable under the skin. However, a medical evaluation—often with imaging or biopsy—provides a definitive diagnosis.
Can a lipoma turn into cancer?
It is exceedingly rare for a benign lipoma to become cancerous, but any sudden changes warrant professional assessment.
Does insurance cover lipoma removal?
Many plans cover removal if the lipoma is symptomatic or suspicious. Purely cosmetic removal may not be covered.
How big can lipomas get?
Some lipomas stay small (pea-sized), while others can grow several centimeters in diameter, occasionally becoming uncomfortable.
Is the surgery painful or risky?
Lipoma removal is done under local anesthesia. Patients generally report minimal pain and can resume normal activities quickly.
Will I have a scar?
A small scar will appear where the incision is made, but proper wound care and minimally invasive techniques help reduce scarring.
Can I remove multiple lipomas in one session?
Sometimes, removing multiple lipomas at once is feasible depending on the size and location.
Is recurrence likely after removal?
If the entire lipoma (including its capsule) is excised, recurrence at that same spot is rare.
Do lipomas hurt?
Most lipomas are painless unless they press on nerves or grow near sensitive areas.
What is the recovery time?
Recovery usually involves caring for the incision site, with full healing expected in a few weeks. Downtime is generally minimal.
Do men and women get lipomas at the same rate?
Both men and women can develop lipomas. Genetics and certain medical conditions may increase the likelihood.
Is lipoma removal typically an outpatient procedure?
Yes, the procedure is usually performed in-office under local anesthesia, allowing you to go home the same day.