Lipoma Removal: What To Look For After Lipoma Surgery

Lipomas are usually not painful or harmful, but there are times when they can be uncomfortable, especially if they arise on the back. If they do not cause any problems then no treatment is necessary, but for many people they are cosmetically unappealing and lipoma removal surgery may be the preferred option.

During the simple excision procedure, a small cut is made over the lump, the fatty tissue is removed, and the skin is sutured. The patient, the size and location of the lump will determine the type of anesthetic used. Small lipomas can be removed under local anesthesia, which may mean day surgery only, with a short recovery time required. Larger lipomas, such as those on the back, must be removed under general anesthesia and will therefore involve a longer recovery period, with a ban on driving or operating machinery for at least 24 hours.

As with all surgical procedures, there will be certain risk factors to consider after lipoma removal. The following are some examples:

Liquid

This is a common occurrence. Clear fluid collects in the space left vacant when the lipoma was removed and may sometimes need to be drained.

Infection

Antibiotic treatment will be required if an infection occurs.

bleeding

If the wound bleeds, it may be necessary to return to the surgeon for further care.

Reappearance

If a small part of the lipoma remains, the lipoma will return

damaged nerves

As is the case with all surgical procedures, the possibility of nerve damage is raised.

Cicatrization

Some people develop keloid scarswhich can be unsightly.

Risks of a more general nature, although extremely rare, include death as a reaction to anesthesia, blood clots, heart attack, or stroke due to blood vessel problems.

After surgery, the least that can be expected is adequate pain control by the medical team, who should frequently monitor pain and discomfort levels and take appropriate action. Typical pain relievers that can be used are Panadol and NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), but something stronger than Panadol is rarely needed. As with all medicines and drugs, professional medical advice should be obtained before continuing treatment.

After discharge, the incision should be protected with a waterproof bandage for approximately 5 days. It should be cured after this period, but you will still need care in washing it until it is fully cured. It is normal to find bruising around the wound, perhaps slightly reddening along the cut or a hard ridge of tissue below the wound. All of these should fade and be less noticeable after about three months.

A common sense approach to activities and exercise should be employed, taking things slowly and carefully at first, until the wound is fully healed.

However, not everyone finds lipoma surgery an attractive option. There are several natural home remedies and herbal treatments that can be tried if surgery does not seem like a suitable solution. Of course, proper professional medical advice should always be sought before taking this course of action to avoid lipoma surgery.