Have you ever noticed a small bump on your body that seems to come out of nowhere? It's actually a condition called Lipoma.

The journey of navigating lipomas can be a perplexing one, especially when determining whether it’s time for surgical intervention.

Curious about when surgery might be needed for lipoma?

In this blog, Mykare Health will guide you in finding out the key signs that indicate time to consider surgical removal of a lipoma.

Understanding Lipomas

Before delving into the signs and symptoms that warrant surgical intervention, it’s essential to understand what lipomas are. These slow-growing tumors typically appear as soft lumps under the skin.

They can vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters, and while they can appear anywhere on the body, they are most commonly found on the trunk, arms, thighs, and neck.

Lipomas are generally harmless and do not transform into cancerous growths. However, there are times when they can cause discomfort or become a concern for the individual.

Common Characteristics of Lipomas

• Soft and Painless: Lipomas usually feel soft to the touch and are not painful.

• Movable: They can often be moved slightly under the skin when pressed.

• Slow-Growing: Most lipomas grow very slowly, if at all.

When to Consider Surgery?

While many lipomas can be left alone, certain factors may indicate that surgical intervention is necessary. Understanding these signs can help individuals make informed decisions regarding their health.

1. Rapid Growth

One of the most concerning signs associated with lipomas is rapid growth. If a lipoma suddenly enlarged significantly in a short period, it may warrant further investigation.

Although most lipomas grow slowly, an abrupt increase in size could indicate a more serious condition, such as a liposarcoma (a rare type of cancer that arises in fatty tissues). If you notice that a lipoma is growing rapidly, consult a healthcare professional to assess the situation.

2. Pain or Discomfort

While lipomas are typically painless, they can occasionally press against nerves or other tissues, causing discomfort or pain. If a lipoma begins to cause pain, it may be time to consider removal. Pain can significantly impact one’s quality of life, and surgical intervention can alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

3. Location and Appearance

The location of a lipoma can also determine the need for surgical removal. For instance, if a lipoma is located in an area where it is likely to be irritated by clothing or movement (like the armpit or inner thigh), it might require removal to prevent discomfort.

Additionally, if the lipoma is large or has an unsightly appearance, individuals may choose to have it removed for cosmetic reasons.

4. Diagnostic Uncertainty

Sometimes, it can be challenging to distinguish between a lipoma and other types of tumors. If a healthcare professional suspects that a growth may not be a benign lipoma, they may recommend imaging studies or a biopsy to rule out malignancy.

If there is any doubt about the nature of the lump, surgery may be necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis.

5. Functional Impairment

In rare cases, lipomas can interfere with the normal functioning of nearby organs or structures. For instance, if a lipoma is pressing against blood vessels, nerves, or organs, it may require surgical removal to restore normal function and prevent complications.

If you experience symptoms related to impaired function, it’s essential to discuss your concerns with a healthcare provider.

6. Personal Preference

Finally, personal preference plays a significant role in the decision to remove a lipoma. Some individuals may feel uncomfortable with the presence of a lipoma, regardless of its size or symptoms. If a person is self-conscious about their appearance or experiences psychological distress due to the lipoma, they may opt for surgical removal.

The Surgical Procedure

If surgery is deemed necessary, the procedure to remove a lipoma is usually straightforward. It is often performed on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day.

Types of Surgical Procedures

• Excision: This is the most common method of lipoma removal. The surgeon makes an incision over the lipoma, removes it, and closes the incision with stitches.

• Liposuction: In some cases, liposuction may be used to remove a lipoma, especially if it is large or located in a difficult area. This method involves using a thin tube (cannula) to remove the fatty tissue.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from lipoma surgery is typically quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days. However, it’s essential to follow post-operative care instructions, which may include

• Keeping the incision site clean and dry.

• Taking prescribed pain medication if necessary.

• Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Potential risks and complications of Surgery

Surgical removal of a lipoma is generally considered a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it carries potential risks and complications. Here are some of the possible risks associated with lipoma removal

1. Infection

There’s a chance of developing an infection at the surgical site, especially if proper aftercare is not followed.

2. Bleeding

Some bleeding during or after the procedure may occur, which could lead to hematoma formation (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels).

3. Scarring

Surgery will leave a scar, the extent of which can vary based on factors like the size of the lipoma, the surgical technique used, and individual healing.

4. Nerve Damage

In rare cases, nearby nerves may be damaged during the removal, potentially leading to numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area.

5. Recurrence of the Lipoma

Though uncommon, there’s a possibility that the lipoma may return after removal, especially if it was not completely excised.

6. Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may have allergic reactions to anesthesia or medications used during or after the procedure.

7. Delayed Healing

Some patients may experience delayed healing due to factors such as poor blood flow, diabetes, or inadequate post-operative care.

8. Anesthesia Risks

If general anesthesia is used, there are inherent risks, such as respiratory issues or reactions to the anesthetic agents, although these are rare.