LIPOMA REMOVAL

A lipoma is a benign soft-tissue tumor that can be found anywhere on the skin and is most common in middle-aged patients. Lipomas rarely become cancerous and are not usually a medical concern. However, many people are bothered by the appearance of lipomas and seek treatment to have them removed. If they become painful, they definitely should be removed.

Lipomas can be removed through surgical excision, which removes the sac or lipoma wall, as well as the entire lipoma. This is done under a local anesthetic. After excising the lipoma, the wound is closed with stitches. The lipoma is then sent to a pathology laboratory to rule out malignancy. Most lipomas do not return after surgical excision. For very large lipomas or for lipomas in certain locations Dr. Prystowsky may refer you to a general surgeon.