Expert Lipoma Removal Surgery in New Jersey

Lipomas are usually benign (non-cancerous) tumors composed of fat cells that grow slowly beneath the skin or in muscle. While they are generally harmless, some lipomas can grow large enough to interfere with movement, cause pain, or lead to cosmetic concerns. In rare cases, what appears to be a lipoma may actually be a malignant tumor, such as liposarcoma, making removal important for proper diagnosis and treatment. Lipoma removal is typically a straightforward procedure designed to safely and effectively remove the tumors while ensuring underlying concerns are addressed.  

Benefits of Lipoma Removal Surgery

Lipoma removal is a safe and effective way to provide relief for patients experiencing physical or cosmetic concerns caused by these fatty growths.

• Alleviate discomfort caused by pressure on surrounding tissues
• Improve mobility and range of motion in affected areas
• Resolve cosmetic concerns that may affect self-esteem
• Prevent potential complications, such as increased size or infection

Are You a Candidate?

Lipoma removal may be recommended for individuals experiencing pain, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns due to lipomas. This approach is particularly beneficial for those with rapidly growing, symptomatic, or multiple lipomas. Patients with certain underlying health conditions or active infections should discuss alternative treatment options with their healthcare provider.

What to Expect

Before

Before surgery, your care team will conduct a thorough pre-operative assessment. This typically includes reviewing your medical history, medications, and any allergies. Imaging tests such as ultrasounds or MRIs may be ordered to better understand the lipoma’s size and location. You will receive detailed instructions, such as avoiding smoking and alcohol, fasting prior to surgery, and arranging for post-procedure transportation. On the day of surgery, you’ll undergo pre-operative checks to ensure you’re ready. The surgery is generally low-risk, and your doctor will address any questions to help you feel at ease.

During

The procedure begins with cleaning and sterilizing the surgical area. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the site, ensuring comfort throughout. The surgeon will make a small incision over or near the lipoma, the size of which depends on the lipoma's size and location. Next, the lipoma is carefully separated from surrounding tissues, ensuring the capsule, if present, is removed to decrease the risk of recurrence. After the lipoma is removed, the incision is closed, often with sutures on the inside that dissolve on their own.

After

Following surgery, the incision site may be dressed with a sterile bandage or may be sealed with glue. You may experience mild soreness or pressure, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients are discharged the same day and provided with post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal healing.

Recovering From Lipoma Removal

The typical recovery from lipoma removal surgery is short, with most patients able to resume normal activities within a few days to a week. However, complete healing of the surgical site may take up to a few weeks.

After surgery, wound care typically involves keeping the incision site clean and dry if there is a bandage, adhering to your surgeon's dressing-change instructions, and avoiding submersion in water until fully healed. Rest is key, particularly in the initial days, and strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least two weeks. Be sure to follow your surgeon's advice and watch for signs of infection or complications, such as excessive pain, swelling, redness, warmth, discharge at the incision spot, fever, chills, or the wound reopening.

Risks and Side Effects

Like any surgical procedure, lipoma removal carries some risks and potential side effects, though complications are rare. Being informed about these possibilities can help you prepare and ensure a smooth recovery. Risk and side effects may include:

• Mild pain, swelling, or bruising around the incision site, which typically resolves within a few days
• Temporary numbness or sensitivity near the treated area
• Risk of infection if the wound is not properly cared for
• Recurrence of the mass
• Scarring at the incision site, though advanced techniques aim to minimize this
• Rare complications, such as excessive bleeding, delayed healing, or fluid buildup (seroma)

Your surgeon will provide clear aftercare instructions to reduce these risks and guide you through the healing process. If you notice signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, pus, or fever, contact your healthcare provider promptly.