A lipoma is a common, non-cancerous growth of fatty tissue that forms just beneath the skin. These soft, movable lumps are typically harmless and often do not require treatment. However, if a lipoma causes discomfort or becomes a cosmetic concern, surgical removal is a common consideration. This article explores lipomas, their surgical removal, the procedure, and associated risks and recovery.
What is a Lipoma and Why Surgery?
Lipomas are soft, rubbery lumps of fat cells, usually found just under the skin. They are often less than 2 inches in diameter but can grow larger and typically move easily when touched. While lipomas can appear anywhere, they are most common on the back, trunk, arms, shoulders, and neck.
Most lipomas are painless, but they can become bothersome if they press on nearby nerves or grow rapidly. Surgical removal is considered for cosmetic concerns, especially if the lipoma is visible or large. Discomfort or pain from nerve pressure, or its growth interfering with movement, can also indicate a need for removal. Rarely, a doctor might recommend removal to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.
How Lipoma Surgery is Performed
Lipoma removal is typically a straightforward outpatient procedure. For most cases, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, allowing the patient to remain awake and pain-free. For larger or deeper lipomas, sedation or general anesthesia might be administered.
During the procedure, a surgeon makes an incision over the lipoma. The fatty mass is then carefully separated from surrounding tissues and removed. After removal, the incision is closed with stitches, which may be dissolvable or require later removal. The process typically takes less than an hour, often within 30 minutes, depending on the lipoma’s size and location.
Understanding the Potential Risks
Lipoma surgery is generally safe, but like any procedure, it carries potential risks. Common minor side effects include bruising, swelling, and mild pain around the surgical site, typically subsiding within days. Scarring is expected, its severity depending on incision size and individual healing, usually fading over time. Temporary numbness or altered sensation near the incision is also possible due to nerve disruption, often improving over time.
More significant complications can occur. Infection at the surgical site (characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever) is a possibility. Fluid collection (seroma) or blood collection (hematoma) can form under the skin, which may resolve or require drainage.
Nerve damage, though rare, can lead to temporary or permanent numbness or weakness if the lipoma is near a nerve. There is a small chance of recurrence if any part of the fibrous capsule remains. Adverse reactions to anesthesia are very rare, especially with local anesthesia.
Recovery and Minimizing Complications
Recovery after lipoma removal is typically quick, with most individuals returning to daily activities within a few days to a week. Complete healing of the surgical site and resolution of bruising or swelling may take a few weeks. Following post-operative care instructions is important for a smooth recovery and to minimize complications.
Wound care involves keeping the incision site clean and dry, and changing dressings as advised by the surgeon. Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Patients should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a short period to prevent strain on the incision. Monitor the incision site for signs of infection, such as increased redness, pain, pus discharge, or fever. If these signs appear, or if there is unexpected swelling or persistent severe pain, contact a healthcare provider.