Losing weight does not shrink lipomas.
Lipomas are slow-growing, non-cancerous lumps of mature fat cells. Commonly found under the skin, the growths feel round, smooth and rubbery. They readily roll beneath the fingers with pressure. Although most lipomas are harmless, any abnormal lump requires examination by a qualified health care professional.
Lipoma Causes
No one knows why lipomas develop. According to the Mayo Clinic, they tend to run in families, suggesting heredity plays a role in their occurrence. The America Academy of Family Physicians claims injury may also cause lipoma formation.
Lipomas and Diet
According to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, although lipomas occur more commonly in overweight individuals, losing weight does not shrink lump size. Dr. Yiannis Panayiotopoulus, a consultant of vascular and general surgery at Broomfield Hospital in England, states there is lack of scientific evidence supporting claims that high-fat diets contribute to lipoma formation.
Lipoma Treatment
According to the Mayo Clinic, lipomas need not be removed unless they exhibit rapid growth, cause pain or in a bothersome location. Treatment options include surgical removal, liposuction or steroid injections. Once removed surgically, they rarely recur. Steroid injections and liposuction shrink growths rather than totally eradicate them.
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