Lipomas are a type of benign tumor composed of fat tissue. They develop as soft, round growths under the skin, and can occur in any part of the body. Although not cancerous, lipomas can become a cause of concern when they grow too large or become painful.

In such cases, lipoma surgery becomes necessary to remove the tumor. This article explores why lipoma surgery is necessary and what to expect from the procedure.

Reasons for Lipoma Surgery

Lipomas are generally not harmful to the body, and many people can live with them without experiencing any complications. However, in some cases, lipomas can grow too large and cause discomfort or restrict movement.

A large lipoma can press on nerves and muscles, potentially leading to pain or numbness in the affected area. In rare instances, a lipoma may grow near an organ or a blood vessel and cause health complications.

If you have multiple lipomas in various parts of the body or are experiencing discomfort or pain, the doctor may recommend surgery. The procedure will depend on the size, location, and number of lipomas you may have.

The extent of the surgery may vary from the removal of a single small lump to a large-scale procedure to eliminate multiple growths.

Types of Lipoma Surgery

Several types of lipoma surgery can be performed, depending on the location and size of the tumor. The most common forms of lipoma surgery are:.

Excision Surgery

Excision surgery is the most common type of lipoma surgery. It involves making a small incision in the skin and removing the lump from underneath. This procedure is ideal for small lipomas that are not very deep.

Once the lipoma has been removed, the surgeon may use stitches to close up the wound. In some cases, the wound may be left open to heal on its own gradually.

Liposuction

Liposuction is a minimally-invasive procedure that involves removing the fat cells from the lipoma using a small tube called a cannula. In lipoma removal surgeries, liposuction is used to eliminate multiple, small lipomas.

Liposuction is less invasive than excision surgery, and the recovery time is generally quicker. However, this method is only suitable for small lipomas that are not deeper in the skin.

Minimal Excision Extraction

Minimal Excision Extraction (MEE) is a procedure that is used to treat small lipomas. This procedure involves making a tiny incision in the skin and removing the lipoma contents. The incision is then closed using adhesive strips or small stitches.

MEE is useful for treating small lipomas that are difficult to remove using excision surgery.

The Lipoma Surgery Process

The lipoma surgery process depends on the type of surgery being performed. Before the surgery begins, the doctor will evaluate your medical history and perform a physical examination to determine the size, location, and number of lipomas you may have.

The surgeon may also order imaging tests to evaluate the lipomas’ location and size further.

You will be given general anesthesia before the procedure to minimize pain and help you stay asleep during the operation.

To perform the surgery, an incision will be made in the skin over the lipoma, and the tumor will either be removed using the excision surgery method or broken up using a cannula in the case of liposuction.

After the lipoma or lipomas have been removed, the surgeon may use stitches to close the wound. In some cases, a drain may be placed in the wound to collect any excess fluid that may accumulate in the area.

You will be given pain relief medication and antibiotics to prevent infection after the surgery is over.

The Recovery Process

The recovery process after lipoma surgery depends on the type of surgery performed and the number of lipomas removed. After the procedure, the surgeon will give you detailed instructions on proper care to help you recover quickly and safely.

You may be advised to:.

Rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days after surgery
Avoid lifting heavy objects
Keep the wound dry and clean
Avoid swimming or soaking in a bathtub for a specific period
Wear compression garments if recommended by the surgeon

You may experience bruising, swelling, and pain after the surgery. You may also have drainage from the wound site, which is normal. The dressing on the wound site should be changed regularly to avoid infection and promote healing.

It may take several weeks or even months for the wound to heal completely. However, most people can return to normal activities within a few days of the surgery.

In some cases, the doctor may advise you to go for follow-up appointments to check the healing process and ensure there are no complications.

Complications of Lipoma Surgery

Although lipoma surgery is generally safe and has a low risk of complications, like any surgical procedure, there is a chance of complications. Common complications may include:.

Bleeding or hematoma
Infection
Loss of sensation or feeling in the affected area
Nerve damage
Recurrence of lipoma

If you experience signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding, fever, or discharge from the wound, it’s crucial to contact your doctor immediately. Delaying treatment may lead to further complications and prolong the healing process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lipoma surgery is necessary when the tumor becomes painful, restricts movement, or affects vital organs’ functioning. The extent of the surgery will depend on the number, size, and location of the lipoma.

Lipoma surgery is generally safe and has a low risk of complications; however, it is essential to follow the surgeon’s instructions to avoid further complications and promote faster healing.