Lipomas impact nearly one out of every 1,000 people in the United States. Discovering a lipoma on your body can cause concern; however, these removable lumps are nearly always harmless. There are several reasons why they may develop.

Common Causes of Lipomas

There are several common factors that contribute to the development of lipomas. These include the following:

Genetics

One of the leading causes of lipomas is genetics. When lipomas run in families, it is a condition called familial multiple lipomatosis. In other cases, genetic syndromes may cause these tumors to develop. Some of the most common include Proteus syndrome, Pai Syndrome, and PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome.

Trauma

There are also instances where lipomas develop as a result of trauma. A forceful blow to any area of the skin can damage the connective tissue that surrounds the fat cells in the body. Lipomas can then develop as a response to the damage.

Hormonal Imbalance

High levels of estrogen can increase the risk of developing lipomas. This is due to the fact that estrogen effectively stimulates adipose tissue growth, which can result in lipomas forming. An estrogen imbalance can indicate that you may have an underlying medical condition, such as breast or ovarian cancer, or a result of lifestyle factors or medications.

Age

Although lipomas can develop at any age, individuals between the ages of 40 and 60 are more likely to develop them. The natural aging process can result in an increased likelihood of genetic predisposition or hormonal changes, which can influence the development of lipomas.

Treating Your Lipoma

If you notice a tumor or a lump under your skin, it is vital to schedule an appointment to have it evaluated by our team. If necessary, we may order further testing to make a confirmed diagnosis. Although most lipomas are asymptomatic, you may be able to have them surgically removed if they are unsightly or uncomfortable.

Schedule a Consultation in Short Hills, NJ, Today

If you have a lipoma that is bothering you, our team at Dermatology Consultants of Short Hills can help. Our board-certified experts are committed to providing each patient with effective and skilled treatment. We strive to help our patients find relief and peace of mind by caring for their conditions and answering all of their questions. Contact our office in Short Hills, NJ, by calling 973-232-6245 to schedule an appointment.