Niagara ENT & Facial Surgeon
Dr. Babak Karamy, MD, FRCSC
Lipoma Removal
Welcome to our patient information page on lipoma and surgical lipoma removal. This resource aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of lipomas, including their characteristics, causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.
Considering a lipoma removal or have any questions about an upcoming lipoma removal procedure with Dr. Karamy?
Lipomas and Surgical Lipoma Removal
What are Lipomas?
Lipomas are common, non-cancerous (benign) tumors that form just under the skin. These tumors develop from fat cells and can occur anywhere on the body where fat is present. Lipomas are typically soft to the touch, movable, and painless.
While lipomas are usually harmless, some individuals may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or if they cause discomfort due to their location.
Causes and Symptoms of Lipomas
Causes of Lipomas:
The exact cause of lipomas is not always clear, but they are believed to have a genetic component. Some individuals may have a family history of lipomas, making them more prone to developing these growths. Age and obesity may also be associated with an increased risk of lipoma formation.
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Symptoms of Lipomas:
Lipomas are characterized by the following features:
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Soft and Movable: Lipomas feel soft and can be moved under the skin with gentle pressure.
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Painless: Lipomas are usually painless, although they may cause discomfort if they press on nerves or surrounding tissues.
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Size: Lipomas can vary in size, ranging from pea-sized to several centimeters in diameter.
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Location: Lipomas can occur anywhere on the body, but they are commonly found on the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms, and thighs.
Surgical Removal of Lipomas
Surgical removal of lipomas is a straightforward and common procedure. It is typically performed under local anesthesia, meaning you will be awake during the surgery, but the area around the lipoma will be numb to prevent pain.
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Procedure Details:
The surgical removal of a lipoma generally involves the following steps:
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Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the lipoma, ensuring you are comfortable during the procedure.
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Incision: A small incision is made in the skin overlying the lipoma to gain access to the tumor.
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Removal: The lipoma is carefully separated from surrounding tissues and removed from its location.
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Closure: The incision is then closed with sutures or adhesive strips. In some cases, a small drain may be placed to remove any excess fluid that may accumulate.
Post-Operative Care & Instructions
After the surgical removal of a lipoma, you will need to follow specific post-operative care instructions:
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Recovery Period: Plan for a few days of rest at home after the surgery. Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting during this time.
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Incision Care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry as advised by your healthcare provider.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain medications are usually sufficient to manage any mild discomfort after the surgery.
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Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and remove sutures if necessary.
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​If you are experiencing concerning symptoms or have any questions after a procedure with Dr. Karamy, please contact us​. For emergencies, please go to urgent care.
Book Your Consultation For a Lipoma Removal Surgery
Lipomas are common benign tumors that can develop under the skin. While they are typically harmless, some individuals may choose to have lipomas surgically removed for cosmetic reasons, especially if they are located on the head or neck.
At Niagara ENT & Facial Surgery, we are experienced in the surgical removal of lipomas and providing personalized care to meet your needs. If you have lipomas or are considering surgical removal, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with us. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the best possible care to help you achieve your desired outcome.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this webpage is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment recommendations.