Wondering if lipomas can grow back after removal? Discover the causes of recurrence, learn how to prevent it, and see why patients in Troy, MO, trust us.
A soft lump under the skin can be surprising, even alarming, especially if it seems to return after being removed. If you’ve had a lipoma removed or are considering treatment, you’re likely wondering: “Can lipomas come back after removal?”
If you’ve had a lipoma removed and are concerned it may have returned—or if you’re considering treatment for the first time—our team is here to help. Contact us today by calling (314) 834-1400 or using our online contact form.
🧠 What Is a Lipoma?
A lipoma is a slow-growing, benign (non-cancerous) tumor made up of fatty tissue. It often feels soft, rubbery, and mobile under the skin, and is most common in adults between the ages of 30 and 60.
Lipomas are typically:
- Painless (though some cause discomfort if pressed on nerves)
- Found on the neck, shoulders, arms, back, or thighs
- 1–3 inches wide, but they can grow larger over time
While they’re not dangerous, many patients seek removal for cosmetic reasons, discomfort, or uncertainty about the diagnosis.
Learn More About Our Lipoma Removal Services »
✂️ Does Removal Cure the Lipoma for Good?
In most cases, yes—when a lipoma is fully removed, it does not grow back. That’s why the surgical technique matters.
Complete Surgical Excision = Low Recurrence Risk
Our board-certified dermatologic surgeons perform complete excision, removing:
- The lipoma mass
- The surrounding capsule (the fibrous tissue enclosing it)
Removing the capsule is critical. If any portion of the lipoma or capsule is left behind, it may slowly regrow in the same location.
🔁 Why Do Some Lipomas Come Back?
If you notice a lump in the same area after removal, here’s what may be happening:
1. Incomplete Removal
- A small piece of the lipoma or capsule may have remained
- Can slowly regrow over months or years
- More likely with non-surgical or “injection” techniques
2. New Lipoma, Same Location
- Some patients are genetically predisposed to forming multiple lipomas
- It may appear similar, but it may be a new growth, not a regrowth
3. Post-Procedure Swelling or Scar Tissue
- Occasionally, firm tissue from scar formation can feel like a lump
- Typically resolves over time and doesn’t require additional treatment
🧬 Are Some People More Prone to Recurrence?
Yes, specific individuals are more likely to develop lipomas and, consequently, may experience recurrences even after removal. One notable condition is Familial Multiple Lipomatosis (FML), a rare inherited disorder characterized by the development of multiple lipomas, typically on the trunk and extremities.
Individuals with FML often begin developing lipomas in early adulthood, and the number of lipomas tends to increase with age. While surgical removal of individual lipomas is effective, those with FML may continue to develop new lipomas over time due to their genetic predisposition. (Biology Insights, “Are Lipomas Genetic? Causes and Hereditary Risk Factors“)
🛠 How to Reduce Your Risk of Lipoma Recurrence
While you can’t always prevent new lipomas, you can minimize recurrence risk by:
Choosing Expert Surgical Removal
- Look for providers who specialize in dermatologic and skin surgery
- At SLD, all lipoma removals are done in-office with precision and minimal scarring
Avoiding “Drainage” or Incomplete Removal
- Draining a lipoma may provide short-term relief, but it rarely removes the root cause
- Always opt for complete excision when possible
Monitoring Your Skin
- Keep an eye on areas where lipomas have appeared in the past
- Schedule an evaluation early if a new lump appears
🧾 What If My Lipoma Comes Back?
If you’ve had a lipoma removed and suspect it’s returning—or notice a similar lump nearby—don’t panic.
Here’s what to do:
- Book a follow-up consultation
- We’ll examine the area and determine if it’s a recurrence, scar tissue, or something else.
- Consider diagnostic imaging
- In rare cases, an ultrasound can help define the mass before surgery.
- Plan for surgical re-excision
- If the lipoma recurs, we’ll remove it completely, taking into account both medical and cosmetic outcomes.
🌟 Why Troy, MO Patients Choose SLD for Lipoma Removal
Our patients across Lincoln County, St. Charles County, and beyond trust us for skin surgery because we offer:
- Board-certified dermatologists and skin surgeons
- Minimally invasive, in-office procedures
- Cosmetic precision for minimal scarring
- A strong record of low recurrence rates
We treat each lipoma with both medical expertise and cosmetic care, because how your skin looks after treatment matters.
Meet Our Team of Specialists »
📅 Thinking About Lipoma Removal? Let’s Talk.
If you’ve had a lipoma removed and are concerned it may have returned—or if you’re considering treatment for the first time—our team is here to help.
📞 Call us at (314) 834-1400 💻 Request a Consultation Online » 📍 Located in Troy, MO