Ask a doctor

Should I Have my Axillary Lipoma Removed?

I was just diagnosed with an axillary lipoma in the lymph node under my arm. The biopsy confirmed it is benign. The surgeon feels we should just monitor it closely with ultrasounds every 3 months. I am afraid of it turning malignant, mostly because my Grandmother died from breast cancer. What is my best course of action for this situation?

Doctor Answers 3

Axillary Lipoma Removal

February 25th, 2013
{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}

I think it is safe for you to follow this. Particularly since your surgeon said the biopsy is ok.

Marilyn Pelias, MD


New Orleans General Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 13 reviews

Remove Axillary Lipoma

February 18th, 2013
{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}

True lipomas turn malignant only rarely (if at all...there is even some question about that).  And the malignancy would not be breast cancer (it would be a liposarcoma).  That being said, removing it sounds like the best approach for your physical health and peace of mind.

I hope that this helps and good luck,

Dr. E

Web reference: http://www.bodysculpture.com

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS
New York Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 108 reviews

Axillary Lymph Node - Remove or Follow?

February 18th, 2013
{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}

Both approached sound reasonable. If you are very concerned then it might be best to simply remove it. Discuss with your surgeon.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.