• Cahya Plastic Surgery and Burn Care, First floor, Subhadra building, Opposite Kunal Icon, Pimple Saudagar Pune 411027.

Lipoma Excision

Lipoma excision is a surgical procedure to remove a lipoma, a benign tumor composed of fatty tissue that grows slowly under the skin. Lipomas are generally soft, movable lumps that can vary in size and are often painless, although they may cause discomfort if they press on surrounding tissues or nerves. While lipomas are typically harmless, removal may be desired for cosmetic reasons or if the lipoma is causing symptoms such as pain or restricted movement.

Indications for Lipoma Excision

  • Cosmetic Concerns: Lipomas can be unsightly, especially if they are located in visible areas, prompting individuals to seek removal for aesthetic reasons.
  • Pain or Discomfort: Although lipomas are often painless, they can grow large enough to cause pain or pressure on nearby nerves, muscles, or skin.
  • Size or Growth: Lipomas that increase in size or become particularly large may be excised to prevent further complications.
  • Mobility Issues: A lipoma located in a joint area or where movement is restricted may be excised to improve mobility.

Procedure

  • Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably, and the area around the lipoma is cleaned and sterilized. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring that the procedure is painless.
  • Incision and Removal: A small incision is made over the lipoma, and the surgeon gently separates the lipoma from surrounding tissue. The entire lipoma, including its capsule (the outer shell), is carefully removed to prevent recurrence. If the lipoma is deep or large, the incision may be larger.
  • Closing the Incision: After the lipoma is removed, the incision is closed with stitches. In some cases, if the lipoma was small, a drain may be used temporarily to prevent fluid buildup.

Recovery and Aftercare

  • Wound Care: The patient is instructed to keep the area clean and dry, with regular dressing changes. Stitches are typically removed after 7-10 days.
  • Pain Management: Some discomfort or mild swelling may occur post-procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Activity Restrictions: Patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks to allow proper healing.