Skip to content

LIPOMA REMOVAL

Lipomas are common, benign tumors composed of mature fat cells enclosed in a thin capsule. They sit most often in the subcutaneous (just under the skin) layer, feel soft and mobile, and grow slowly over months to years. Variants include angiolipomas (can be tender due to small blood vessels) and less common types that contain fibrous tissue. Deeper lipomas can occur within muscle (intramuscular) or along fascial planes.

Lipomas are not cancers and do not “turn into” liposarcoma. However, certain features (deep location, rapid growth, firmness, size >5 cm) can mimic atypical lipomatous tumors/liposarcoma—those require closer evaluation and pathology to be sure.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS

  • Soft, lobulated, mobile mass under the skin
  • Usually painless; may ache with pressure, motion, or trauma (seatbelt, backpack strap)
  • Can appear anywhere: trunk, shoulders, back, arms, thighs; solitary or multiple
  • Red flags (seek assessment): size >5 cm, deep/fixed to muscle, rapid enlargement, firm/irregular texture, new pain, or neurologic symptoms (numbness/tingling)

CAUSES & PREVENTION

  • Why they form: Exact cause is unclear. Contributors include genetics (e.g., familial multiple lipomatosis), local growth factors, and occasionally a history of minor trauma to the area.
  • Prevention: There is no proven way to prevent lipomas. Maintaining a healthy weight does not eliminate existing lipomas (they’re discrete growths), though it can make exam and surgery simpler.

TREATMENT & PROCEDURE

Do all lipomas need to be removed?

No. Many can be observed if small and asymptomatic. We recommend removal for growth, pain/tenderness, functional interference, cosmetic concerns, or diagnostic uncertainty.

Many lipomas remain stable and cause no harm. Others enlarge slowly, become achy with pressure/motion, or create a visible bulge. Because a minority of deep/fast-growing masses can mimic more serious tumors, we recommend medical evaluation—even if you choose observation—to confirm the diagnosis and set a follow-up plan.
What does the procedure involve, and is it painful?

Under local anaesthetic, we make an incision over the lump and gently free the lipoma from surrounding tissue—then close the skin with sutures/adhesive. You’ll feel pressure and movement, but no sharp pain once numb. Typical time: 15–40 minutes depending on size/site. Large/deep lesions may require a longer visit or a different setting.

RISKS, RECOVERY, AFTERCARE

What are the risks?

Generally low: bleeding, infection, seroma/hematoma, scarring, contour irregularity, and recurrence (uncommon after complete excision; higher with deep/multilobulated lesions). When lesions are near nerves/vessels, there’s a small risk of temporary numbness or irritation.
What do you recommend for aftercare?

Goal: keep the site clean, limit swelling, support neat healing.
Do:

  • Keep the dressing clean/dry; change it as instructed.
  • Clean gently after 24 h (unless told otherwise) and apply petrolatum or prescribed ointment; re-cover with a light dressing.
  • Use compression/elevation if advised to reduce swelling/bruise.
  • Limit stretching/strenuous activity that tugs on the area for 5–7 days (longer for large/deep sites).
  • Return for suture removal (typical: face 5–7 d; trunk/limbs 10–14 d) and to review pathology if sent.

Don’t:

  • Don’t pick/scratch or remove scabs/sutures early.
  • Don’t soak the wound (hot tubs/pools) until cleared.
  • Don’t apply harsh acids/retinoids to the incision while healing.
  • Don’t sun-expose the fresh scar; once closed, protect with clothing or SPF 50 to minimize pigment change.

Costs

What does it cost to have a Lipoma Removed?

Lipoma removal cost ranges from $495 to $1,500 . Prices fluctuate based on the cyst's size, location (e.g., face vs. back), and complexity (e.g., multiple lipomas, deep lipomas and previously ruptured or infected lipomas).

No Referral Needed

Explore Consultation Options Book a FREE Consultation