Lipoma Removal Surgery

What Is Lipoma Removal Surgery?

Lipoma removal surgery is a medical procedure performed to remove one or more lipomas from your body. A lipoma is a soft, rubbery bulge that arises from fat cells. They’re usually slow-growing and located just under the skin. Although lipomas are benign, they can become uncomfortable or unsightly.

This surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll likely go home the same day. Anca Breahna performs lipoma removal surgery using a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the lipoma. After the procedure, the removed lipomas are often sent to a laboratory for analysis to confirm that they are noncancerous.

Who Needs Lipoma Removal Surgery?

Not everyone with a lipoma needs to have it removed. As mentioned before, lipomas are benign growths that do not turn into cancer. Therefore, if your lipoma isn’t causing any discomfort or cosmetic concern, your doctor may simply recommend keeping an eye on it.

However, you might be a candidate for lipoma removal surgery if your lipoma:

• Causes pain or discomfort
• Is growing quickly
• Is in an area that is causing functional impairment or cosmetic concern
• Is pressing against nerves or other structures, causing problems

Anca will help you weigh the potential benefits and risks of surgery to decide if it’s the right choice for you. It’s also important to discuss your overall health, as certain conditions may impact your eligibility for surgery.

Benefits of Lipoma Removal Surgery

There are several benefits to undergoing lipoma removal surgery. For one, it provides a definitive way to remove lipomas that are bothersome or causing discomfort. The procedure can alleviate any pain or discomfort associated with the lipoma, especially if it is pressing against nerves or other structures in the body.

Another key benefit is that once a lipoma is removed, it is typically gone for good. Although lipomas can reoccur, it’s not common for them to return in the same location.

Lastly, removing and analysing the lipoma can provide peace of mind, as it confirms the growth is indeed benign.

How Is Lipoma Removal Surgery Performed?

The procedure for removing a lipoma depends on the method chosen. Here’s a brief outline of what each technique entails:

• Surgical Excision: This is often performed in a hospital or surgical centre under local anaesthesia. Anca will make a small incision over the site of the lipoma and dissect it away from the surrounding tissues. Once removed, the wound is then stitched closed. This procedure takes less than an hour, depending on the size and number of lipomas to be removed.
• Liposuction: For liposuction, Anca will make a small incision and insert a thin, hollow tube called a cannula. The other end of the cannula is attached to a machine that generates a strong vacuum. Anca will move the cannula back and forth through the lipoma to break up the fat cells, which are then sucked out of your body.

It’s important to remember that the exact method used for your lipoma removal may vary based on your specific situation and the surgeon’s expertise.

Recovery after Lipoma Removal Surgery

Recovering from lipoma removal surgery is a straightforward process, but it varies depending on the individual’s general health, the type of surgery performed, and the size and location of the lipoma. Here is a more detailed look into the recovery process after lipoma removal surgery.

Immediate Post-Operative Care

• Wound Care: The surgical area will be covered with a bandage to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. Anca will instruct you on how to care for your wound at home. This usually involves changing the dressing regularly and observing the wound for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.
• Pain Management: It’s normal to experience some discomfort and pain in the area where the lipoma was removed. Anca will likely prescribe pain medication to manage this. It’s important to take the medication as directed.
• Ice Packs: You may use ice packs to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Typically, the ice pack should be wrapped in a towel and applied to the area for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Daily Activities and Limitations

• Rest: Rest is an important part of the recovery process. You should take it easy for the first few days following your surgery. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting, which can strain the incision site and slow down the healing process.
• Physical Activity: After the initial few days, gradually reintroduce physical activity into your routine. Light walking is often encouraged to promote blood circulation. However, avoid high-impact activities until Anca gives the go-ahead.
• Hygiene: Showering may be restricted for the first few days to keep the surgical area dry. Anca will let you know when you can resume normal bathing routines.

Follow-Up Care

• Stitch Removal: If you have non-absorbable stitches, they’ll need to be removed by Anca and her nurses usually one to two weeks after the surgery.
• Monitoring Healing Process: It’s important to monitor the wound for any signs of infection or complications. If you notice any unusual symptoms such as increased pain, redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your surgeon immediately.
• Surgeon’s Visits: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so your plastic surgeon can monitor your healing process. This is a good time to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about your recovery.

Further Reading

• Read Anca’s Blog on Treatment Options for Lipoma and Other Swellings
• Read Anca’s Blog on Treatment for Nerve Lacerations and Trauma
• Read Anca’s Blog on How to Get Rid of Moles