Lipomas are a common type of benign (non-cancerous) tumours that are made up of fatty tissue. They are soft to the touch, movable, and painless. While lipomas are not dangerous to one’s health, they can be unsightly and cause discomfort or embarrassment. Lipoma removal is a safe and effective procedure that can be performed to remove these tumours.

What is Lipoma Removal?

Lipoma removal is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing the tumour and a small amount of surrounding tissue. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, meaning that the patient is awake but the area of the lipoma is numb. The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and location of the lipoma.

How is Lipoma Removal Performed?

There are two main methods for removing lipomas: excision and liposuction. Excision involves making an incision over the lipoma, removing it, and closing the incision with sutures. Liposuction involves using a small cannula to suction out the fatty tissue. Your dermatologist will recommend the best method for removing your lipoma based on its size, location, and other factors.

What to Expect After Lipoma Removal

After the procedure, you will be given a dressing to cover the incision site. You may experience some swelling and tenderness in the area, but this should subside in a few days. You will be able to return to your normal activities within a few days, but you should avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks. Your dermatologist will give you specific instructions for caring for the incision site and will schedule a follow-up appointment to check your progress.

Risks and Complications of Lipoma Removal

Lipoma removal is a safe procedure, but like any surgical procedure, there are some risks and complications to consider. Some of the most common risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Recurrence of the lipoma

Your doctor will discuss these risks with you and answer any questions you may have before the procedure.

Conclusion

Lipoma removal is a safe and effective procedure for removing benign tumours. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia and takes about 30 minutes to an hour. After the procedure, you can expect some swelling and tenderness, but you will be able to return to your normal activities within a few days. If you have a lipoma that is causing discomfort or embarrassment, talk to your dermatologist about lipoma removal. They can help determine if the procedure is right for you and answer any questions you may have.

Additional Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Lipoma
• American Academy of Dermatology: Lipoma
• WebMD: Lipoma