About this Condition

Lipomas appear as fatty lumps beneath the skin. They are benign (non-cancerous) skin tumours made up of fat cells.

Lipomas are usually harmless, but they can grow quite large and are unlikely to disappear on their own. Lipomas are very common, with around one in 100 people developing them at some stage during their lives. It’s not unusual to find more than one lipoma and there are some rare genetic conditions where several are present, known as ‘familial multiple lipomatosis’.

They commonly appear on the forehead, neck, shoulders, arms, chest, buttocks, back and thighs. They have a rubbery consistency and the whole tissue growth can be moved beneath the skin. Lipomas are not usually painful, but it’s advisable to consult a skin expert if you suspect you have one. Many people choose to remove lipomas for cosmetic or practical reasons as they may be in a prominent location, or cause discomfort.

Lipomas can be mistaken for cysts but there are some important differences:

Cysts are normally found close to the surface of the skin, whereas lipomas are usually located much deeper.
Cysts can become inflamed resulting in a red, painful and swollen appearance, unlike lipomas.
Lipomas are soft and dough-like and can be moved around under the skin, unlike cysts which are usually firm to the touch.

During the consultation the growth will be examined by one of our consultant dermatologists and/or plastic surgeons to confirm that it is a lipoma. They will assess its size, shape, consistency, and mobility. They may also check for signs of infection or any other abnormalities.

Lipomas are typically removed through surgical excision, though in some rare cases liposuction may be appropriate. Your consultant will discuss the available treatment options and explain the benefits, risks and expected outcomes for each. They will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have before you decide on a treatment plan.

If suitable, you may decide to combine the consultation with the procedure as a ‘see and treat’ which means the procedure will happen straight after the consultation. This can be more convenient and cost effective for patients. You can discuss this option at the time of booking.

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How we can help

Consultant surgeon Dr Abood discussing treatment options with a Cambridge patient.

Our expert team can help answer any questions you may have and help you to decide on the best course of treatment.

What our clients think

    
 
 
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   tonia george 
 9 February 2024
 
 
  Day into lower eye blep lift. Staff were great all the way through procedure. Everything went smoothly. Lovely cup of tea and brownie after. Looking forward to seeing results. Would recommend .
  
 
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   Kimba DanceFit 
 8 February 2024
 
 
  I am full of praise for Mr Abood, his team and his clinic. It is a friendly, welcoming environment with ample (and free!) parking. The staff are caring and empathetic, the procedure was straightforward and I felt as though my wellbeing was prioritised at all times. I cannot recommend them highly enough and would definitely return. The care I received before, during and after the procedure was excellent, and it was an overall positive experience.
  
 
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   James Daniel 
 26 January 2024
 
 
  Yesterday, I attended the Day Clinic for the removal of several moles/lesions. I cannot speak highly enough of the treatment I received and the outstanding way in which it was delivered.
This is my second visit to Mr Abood's Clinic, so there was no apprehension nor doubt that the experience would again exceed expectation.
I found Mr Abood to be highly skilled and knowledgeable, personable and caring. I felt instantly at ease in his care and had absolute confidence in his professionalism and expertise.
A special mention to Rachael too, who was equally welcoming, attentive and very kind.
I have no hesitation in recommending Mr Abood and his superlative Team.
With grateful thanks
Deborah Daniel.
  
 
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   Anne Cooke 
 1 January 2024
 
 
  Professional service and clear instructions for after care
  
 
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   Jane Halliday 
 15 December 2023
 
 
  The website of Mr Abood promises an individual and bespoke approach to care, and this is exactly what was delivered; from contacting Justine initially and then having the procedure with Mr Abood.  I cannot recommend highly enough the professionalism, assurance and personalised care that Mr Abood and his Team provide.
  
 
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   Anthony Roberts 
 14 December 2023
 
 
  First class surgery and a fantastic warming atmosphere.
  
 
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   Lizz Grimwade 
 7 December 2023
 
 
  Fantastic experience from start to finish. The whole team werr extremely friendly and professional which made the whole process smooth and efficient. I would be more than happy to use the clinic again and would highly recommend them.
  
 
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   James Waters 
 7 December 2023
 
 
  Very welcoming and friendly. I felt reassured at all times, well briefed before my procedure and given clear guidance post procedure. I would heartily recommend to anyone with any skin lesion. Thankyou to Mr Abood and his colleagues
  
 
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   Carole King 
 30 November 2023
 
 
  From the moment we walked in I felt comfortable and looked after . The whole experience was kind and caring and I felt very well treated . My questions were answered and explained and my comfort during the procedure was constantly checked . The follow up email to explain what may happen was clear and precise and I feel able to contact the clinic if I have any ongoing problems .