Lipomas are benign, slow-growing fatty lumps situated between the skin and muscle layer, often appearing on the arms, torso, neck, or thighs. They feel soft and moveable, commonly affecting adults aged 40-60. While usually painless and under two inches, they can grow and cause discomfort. Monitoring lump size and changes is essential. At London Private Ultrasound, we offer accurate diagnoses and fat-dissolving injections for lipomas under 2 inches, with results in 3-4 weeks. We can treat up to three lipomas in one session.
A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumour made up of fat tissue (fatty lump). They are soft to the touch, movable, and usually painless. Lipomas are the most common form of soft tissue tumor and can occur anywhere in the body, although they are most commonly found on the shoulders, neck, trunk, arms, and thighs. The exact cause of lipomas is not known, but they often run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. Most lipomas do not need treatment unless they become bothersome or cosmetically undesirable. If removal is desired, they can be excised surgically, often under local anesthesia.
The majority of lipomas do not require any scans. Simple clinical examination will usually be enough to confirm that it is likely to be a lipoma. In some cases of lumps on the forehead and face it can be difficult to distinguish between a lipoma and a sebaceous cyst. In these cases an ultrasound scan can be very helpful.
Lipomas are typically non-cancerous. However, those exceeding 5cm, particularly on the back and lower limbs, might be malignant, known as liposarcomas. An ultrasound scan is crucial in such instances.
The injection often contains a solution that helps to break down and dissolve the fat cells within the lipoma. Over time, the lipoma reduces in size and may disappear.
The area is typically numbed with a local anesthetic before the injection, so the procedure itself is minimally painful. Some patients might experience a slight burning sensation or discomfort, which usually subsides quickly.
he number of treatments varies based on the size and number of lipomas. Some lipomas might need multiple injections, while others might be treated with just one.
Side effects are generally mild and can include pain at the injection site, swelling, bruising, or redness. It’s essential to discuss potential side effects with your doctor before the procedure.
The procedure typically takes a few minutes per lipoma, but this can vary depending on the size and location of the lipoma.
Some patients notice a reduction in the size of the lipoma within a few weeks, but it can take longer in some cases.
n many cases, the lipoma doesn’t return after being treated with the injection. However, there’s no guarantee, and new lipomas can develop in other areas.
The injection method for lipoma removal is generally safe, but as with any procedure, there are potential risks. It’s crucial to have the procedure done by an experienced professional and to discuss any concerns beforehand.
Not all lipomas are suitable for injection treatment. Your doctor will assess your lipoma(s) and determine the best method of removal.
The effectiveness of lipoma fat resolving injections largely depends on various factors, including the size, location, and number of lipomas, as well as the specific type of injection used. Here’s a general answer:
Lipoma fat resolving injections, often referred to as “lipolytic injections,” have shown promise in reducing the size of lipomas in many patients. These injections typically contain agents that help to break down and dissolve the fat cells within the lipoma. For some patients, lipomas may significantly reduce in size or even disappear entirely after treatment. However, the success rate can vary:
Our Medical Ultrasound specialists are fully qualified with more than 10 years of experience. They are accredited and registered with their respective governing bodies.
Using the latest technology, We follow all local protocols and national guidelines to provide the best diagnostic ultrasound service in London.
We offer urgent appointments with no waiting list. We also collaborate with Private GPs, Specialists, and an onsite Pathology Laboratory.
We offer a professional and affordable private Ultrasound Scan Service, allowing you to self-refer without the need for any referral from your GP.