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Lipoma Removal

Despite their benign nature, lipomas can be bothersome if they grow large enough to become unsightly or if they press on nearby nerves or structures, causing discomfort or pain.

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Why Choose Dr. Wong Soon Tee

Friendly & Experienced Specialist

Dr. Wong connects well with his patients & he is a specialist with over 30 years of experience.

Dedicated & Focused Patient Care

Dr. Wong will manage every step of his patient’s skin healing journey.

Safe & Effective Treatments

We offer a selection of carefully curated FDA & HSA-approved treatments that give effective results.

Dr. Wong Soon Tee

Consultant Dermatologist
Care and Professionalism Refined by Over 30 years of Dermatology Experience
  • MBBS, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore
  • MRCP. Member of Royal College of Physicians, United Kingdom
  • FAMS, Fellow of Academy of Medicine, Singapore
  • Adjunct Assistant Professor, National University of Singapore
  • Visiting Consultant, University Dermatology Division, National University Hospital
  • Visiting Consultant, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Centre, National University Hospital

What is a Lipoma

A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of fat cells that develops between the skin and the underlying muscle layer.

Appearing as a soft, rubbery lump that can be moved slightly under the skin, lipomas are painless and grow slowly. They are the most common form of soft tissue tumour and can occur in any part of the body where fat cells are present, though they are often found on the torso, neck, upper thighs, upper arms, and armpits.

Lipomas are small in size, usually less than 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter, but they can get bigger over time. Despite their benign nature, lipomas can be bothersome if they grow large enough to become unsightly or if they press on nearby nerves or structures, causing discomfort or pain.

Diagnosing Lipoma

Diagnosing a lipoma involves a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. During the examination, Dr. Wong will assess the lump’s size, shape, and texture.

If the characteristics of the lump suggest a lipoma, further diagnostic tests are not necessary. If there is any doubt or if the lipoma exhibits unusual features such as being hard, immovable, growing rapidly, or causing pain, additional tests may be recommended. These tests may include:

  • Imaging Tests

    Ultrasound or MRI scans can be used to determine the depth and composition of the lump, helping to confirm it is a lipoma and not another type of tumour.

  • Biopsy

    In rare cases where malignancy cannot be ruled out, a biopsy may be performed. This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lump for laboratory analysis to determine its nature.

Lipoma Removal Techniques

The choice of removal technique depends on various factors, including the lipoma’s size, location, and the patient’s preferences and overall health. The most common techniques include:

  • Surgical Excision

    This is the most traditional method, where the lipoma is cut out under local anaesthesia. A small incision is made over the lump, and the lipoma is carefully removed. The incision is then closed with sutures. This method is effective for most lipomas, especially larger ones. The recovery time varies based on the incision’s size and location.

  • Minimal Incision Extraction

    This technique is used for smaller lipomas and involves making a tiny incision through which the lipoma is squeezed out. This method is suitable for lipomas close to the skin’s surface, offering the advantage of minimal scarring and faster recovery compared to traditional surgical excision.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from lipoma removal is typically quick. Most patients will be able to resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure. Patients can generally expect the following:

  • Post-Operative Care: Immediately following the procedure, the treated area may be covered with a bandage. Instructions on how to care for the wound, such as keeping it clean and dry, will be provided.
  • Pain Management: Any discomfort or pain after the procedure is typically minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications.
  • Activity Restrictions: Patients are usually able to return to their normal activities soon after the procedure. Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for a short period.
  • Monitoring: Patients should monitor the incision site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. Any concerns should be promptly addressed by contacting the clinic.
  • Follow-Up Visits: Depending on the procedure, one or more follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor the healing process and remove any sutures if necessary.

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    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Is lipoma removal painful?

    Lipoma removal is typically performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the area. Patients may feel pressure but should not experience pain during the procedure. Any post-operative discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with pain relief medication.

    How long does it take to recover from lipoma removal?

    Recovery times vary depending on the size and location of the lipoma and the removal method used. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, but complete healing of the incision may take a few weeks.

    Are there any risks associated with lipoma removal?

    There are risks such as infection, bleeding, and scarring. These are generally minimal with lipoma removal, especially when performed by an experienced doctor.

    Can lipomas recur after removal?

    While the removal of a lipoma usually resolves the issue permanently, there is a small chance of recurrence. Regular monitoring and follow-up with your doctor can help address any new growth promptly.

    Can lipoma removal lead to any long-term complications?

    Long-term complications from lipoma removal are rare. As with any surgical procedure, there’s a small risk of long-term sensitivity or numbness in the area around the incision site.

    Are there any lifestyle changes recommended after lipoma removal?

    No specific lifestyle changes are typically required following lipoma removal. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and monitoring for any new lumps or changes in existing lumps could be beneficial.

    Can lipomas be prevented?

    Currently, there’s no known method to prevent lipomas as they are not linked to lifestyle factors. They are believed to be largely genetic. Regular self-examinations and medical check-ups can help in early detection.