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At Westford Dermatology & Cosmetic Center, we perform excision of lipomas for Boston patients. Lipomas can be painful and may increase in size over time. Even if a lipoma is asymptomatic, it can still be a cosmetic issue for many patients. Patients are recommended for lipoma removal surgery to get rid of these fatty growths.
Lipoma Excision
Lipomas are non-cancerous lumps that result from the overgrowth of fat cells. These lumps are usually slow-growing and have a soft, squishy feel. Since they develop under the skin layer, they tend to move slightly when pressed.
While there are several treatment approaches for lipomas, surgical excision is the gold standard of all lipoma treatments, since it removes the growth completely.
Am I a Good Candidate for Excision of Lipomas?
You may be recommended for lipoma excision if you are experiencing pain or if the lump is growing larger. You may also seek surgical removal if you have a sizable or inconveniently placed mass.
Since excision of lipoma is a surgical undertaking, it is important that you are in good overall health before the surgery. Ideally, you should be a non-smoker with no cardiovascular or bleeding disorders.
Your Lipoma Removal Consultation
A physical examination of your lump or lumps will be performed during the consultation to ensure your eligibility for surgery. The lumps will be palpated to evaluate size and shape. Photographs may be taken for before-and-after comparison.
Your medical history will be reviewed. Additional diagnostic tests may be requested, such as X-Ray imaging or a biopsy (removal of sample tissue).
The Procedure
The excision of lipoma starts with the administration of anesthesia—local anesthesia for small lumps or general anesthesia for larger or multiple ones. An incision will be made over the lipoma. The size of the incision can be as wide as the lipoma for faster removal. We will cut through to the subdermal layer to reach the growth underneath. After lipoma removal, large incisions will be stitched closed, while pressure dressings may be applied for small incisions.
Another method is the squeeze method. A smaller incision is made, and then the lipoma is squeezed through the opening. This method helps ensure a minimal post-surgical mark but may not work for larger lumps. Depending on the number of the lumps, the procedure can be over within an hour.
The Recovery Process
Recovery and downtime after lipoma excision may only take several days. You may experience discomfort and swelling in the surgical site for a few days. Over-the-counter medications may be prescribed to help alleviate the pain. Wait a few more days to return to exercising and a week before you engage in rigorous activities like sports.
Contact Us to Learn More
Prevent further discomfort and increase the quality of your life with excision of lipomas in Boston. Contact Westford Dermatology & Cosmetic Center today to schedule your consultation.
Your procedure will be performed by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Franks in Boston, MS.
