Fatty tumors exist along a spectrum, ranging from benign lipomas to malignant liposarcomas. While the vast majority of small to medium-sized fatty tumors are benign lipomas, certain characteristics may indicate a higher likelihood of liposarcoma, a rare but serious cancerous tumor.
While benign lipomas rarely transform into liposarcomas, it is essential to have any unusual or changing mass evaluated by a lipoma specialist to rule out malignancy. The lipoma doctors at the Surgery Group of LA will carry out a comprehensive diagnosis of your condition, including imaging and biopsy, to determine the nature of your fatty tumor and recommend the appropriate lipoma treatment or further intervention.
While generally painless, some lipomas can cause discomfort, especially if they press against nerves or develop near joints. The primary symptoms include:
If you notice a new lump or an existing growth that changes in size, shape, or becomes painful, consult a lipoma surgeon for a professional evaluation.
Although most lipomas do not require medical intervention, certain circumstances may warrant lipoma removal:
Dr. Jason Cohen, one of the leading surgeons at Surgery Group LA, was featured on the popular TLC show Take My Tumor, where he performed the removal of a large and complex lipoma. The episode showcased Dr. Cohen's exceptional surgical skill and compassionate patient care as he helped a patient who had been living with a massive lipoma that was significantly impacting their quality of life.
The procedure highlighted Dr. Cohen's expertise in lipoma removal, particularly for large or hard-to-reach tumors that require advanced surgical techniques. His appearance on the show reflects the high level of trust and recognition that Surgery Group LA has earned in the field of surgical care.
Watch Dr. Cohen's appearance on Take My Tumor below:
Not all fatty tumors are the same. Lipomas differ by where they grow, what tissue they contain, and how they behave. Identifying the variant helps our board-certified surgeons plan the right approach and confirm that a growth is benign. The lipoma types we most commonly treat include:
The most common type — soft, movable lumps that sit just beneath the skin on the neck, shoulders, back, arms, or trunk.
Contains both fat and small blood vessels. Angiolipomas are often tender or painful and frequently appear in clusters, commonly on the forearms of younger adults.
A lipoma rich in fibrous connective tissue, which gives it a firmer, denser feel than a typical soft fatty tumor.
Grows within or between muscles — most often in the thigh or shoulder. Because it sits deeper, imaging is sometimes used before removal.
Made up of spindle-shaped cells. These are usually benign but are examined carefully under a microscope to distinguish them from other soft-tissue tumors.
An inherited tendency to develop many lipomas at once, often appearing symmetrically across the arms, trunk, and thighs.
Whatever the variant, an accurate diagnosis comes first. Our board-certified surgeons confirm a growth is benign before recommending removal — part of the comprehensive general surgery care we provide in Los Angeles.
Two surgical approaches can remove a lipoma — full surgical excision and liposuction. The right choice depends on the lipoma’s size, depth, location, and your cosmetic goals. Here’s how they compare:
For most patients, surgical excision delivers the most complete, lasting result because it removes the capsule that can cause regrowth. Our surgeons recommend the approach that best balances thorough removal with the best possible cosmetic outcome — reviewed in detail at your consultation.
Removing a lipoma is the straightforward part — protecting the appearance of your skin is where surgical skill matters most. Our board-certified general surgeons pair complete removal with meticulous, cosmetically minded technique so your results look as natural as possible.
Whenever possible, incisions are placed within relaxed skin-tension lines and natural creases so the healing scar stays discreet.
We choose techniques that remove the lipoma completely through the shortest incision the tumor allows.
Closing the wound in layers takes tension off the skin surface, which supports a finer, flatter scar.
We guide you through wound care, sun protection, and scar-softening steps during recovery to optimize the final appearance.
This cosmetic focus is one reason patients across Los Angeles choose our surgical specialists for lipoma removal. Larger or more complex soft-tissue masses are also managed by our surgical oncology team.
While complete surgical excision typically prevents recurrence, there is a small chance that lipomas can redevelop, especially if the removal was incomplete. Regular monitoring of the area can help in early detection if recurrence occurs.
Currently, surgical removal is the most effective treatment for lipomas. Non-surgical options are limited and generally not as effective in completely eliminating the growth.
Lipomas are benign and have a very low risk of becoming cancerous. However, any rapid changes in size or associated pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out malignancy.
Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of multiple lipomas, a condition known as familial multiple lipomatosis. Other factors may include metabolic conditions and certain syndromes.
More importantly, our team of world-renowned surgeons have saved countless lives, and have enabled countless more to live healthy, happy lives.
Surgery Group LA is located at 8635 W 3rd St, Suite 880W, in the heart of Los Angeles within the Cedars-Sinai medical community. We welcome patients from across greater Los Angeles for expert lipoma diagnosis and removal, including:
Not sure whether your lump is a lipoma? Call (310) 861-7493 to schedule an evaluation with our Los Angeles surgical team.
If you’re seeking expert lipoma treatment in Los Angeles, Surgery Group of LA offers comprehensive care from diagnosis to removal. Our experienced team ensures precise excision techniques to minimize scarring and recurrence risk.
Contact Surgery Group of LA today to discuss your options for lipoma removal. Our dedicated team is here to provide safe, effective, and minimally invasive solutions for your lipoma treatment needs. Call us or schedule an appointment online to take the first step toward expert lipoma excision and care.
