Familial Multiple Lipomatosis

Recently got a question regarding this genetic and familiar condition. Familial Multiple Lipomatosis (FML) is diagnosed when multiple lipomas,  involving the limbs and truck, are diagnosed in more then one family member over several generations. Lipomas are benign fat “lumps”, that can range from the size of a small pea to very large sizes. Usually in FML they average a small marble to a ping pong ball size, are painless but can affect the individual due to his number and visibility, creating contour irregularities and deformities.

There is no specific treatment and surgical excision of those  interfering with mobility, causing  functional impairment or cosmetic  deformity may be advised. There are no other know and efficient treatment for this condition. The use of local injections of lipolytic agents as phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and deoxycholate are not indicated as it does not have proven  efficacy on treating lipomas, although the size can be reduced. The same applies to liposuction

Surgical excision is usually done under local anesthesia in a outpatient/ office based  regime. The lipoma is removed trough a small stab incision. The size and visibility of the resulting scar depends on the size and location  of the lipoma.

In cases of FML I usually plan the excision of several lesions in the same session, and the downtime is again defined by the size and anatomical location of the lesions: the ones in the lower limbs will take longer to heal, but usually not more then a week. Normal daily activities are not limited, only advising to avoid physical activity and swimming for the first 7-10 days. 


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Dr Francisco de Melo is a board certified Plastic Surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery in Portugal and the UAE. Before moving to Dubai in 2012,  was a Consultant Plastic Surgeon and  Head of Surgery Department in the Military Hospital of Lisbon in Portugal.

Mobile : +971585887265