Can lipomas regrow during pregnancy and menopause?

Question

I have a small lipoma in my lower back, next to my spine. Most of it was removed when I was 11, now I'm 23. It wasn't totally removed because of possible further damage to the nerves. I'm quite concerned in case of a pregnancy since I've read that changes in hormones can cause them to grow, and not only that, but also menopause. Is there anything I can do?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Lipomas are benign fatty tumors that are generally harmless, but it’s understandable to have concerns about their growth during periods of hormonal change like pregnancy and menopause. While hormonal fluctuations can potentially influence lipoma growth, it's not a certainty that they will grow during these times.

Here are a few considerations and steps you might take:

Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on the lipoma for any changes in size or symptoms. Regular self-examinations or check-ups with a healthcare provider can help track any changes over time.

Consult with a Specialist: If you are planning a pregnancy or are approaching menopause, it might be beneficial to discuss your concerns with a dermatologist or a surgeon who has experience with lipomas. They can provide personalized advice and assess whether any preventive measures are necessary.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: While there is no specific prevention for lipoma growth, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can support overall health and potentially minimize changes in body fat distribution.

Surgical Options: If the lipoma becomes bothersome or grows significantly, surgical removal can be considered. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider, especially considering the previous concern about nerve damage.

Hormonal Management: If hormonal changes are a significant concern, discussing potential management strategies with an endocrinologist could be helpful.

While it’s important to stay informed, try not to worry excessively. Many people live with lipomas without any issues, and they can often be managed effectively if they become problematic.

Robert M. Lowen, MD · Answer

No, once a lipoma is out, is out forever.  They do not regrow when they have been removed inside their capsule.  If one were to  try to remove them by cutting them in pieces and pulling them out, piecemeal, then some might be left behind and they could regrow.  The key is to use a technique that removes them completely and observe that they are in their capsule and the space they came from is empty.
  If you have a residual lipoma, I would remove just as if it were not previously operated, if it is truly a subcutaneous lipoma.  The only nerves are fine sensory, not motor nerves, and lipomas are removed by dissecting on top of and around their capsule, so any nerves are separated from the lipoma bluntly.

Can lipomas regrow during pregnancy and menopause?

Answers (2)

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