Lipoma Removal

Human skin requires a complex set of systems working together to function properly. When something goes wrong, the result can range from minor issues to life-threatening issues. Lipoma removal with Dr. Gabbay allows you to address a common skin issue that can develop anywhere on the body.

What Is a Lipoma?

A lipoma is a type of growth that usually appears between the skin and the muscle beneath. It consists of fatty cells, which lends it a distinctive soft, doughy feel. Though they can appear anywhere on the body, most lipomas develop on the shoulders, upper back, or abdomen.

Once present, a lipoma will not go away on its own. They typically continue to grow until they reach a certain size. After that, the growth may stop. However, the lipoma itself will remain unless you treat it.

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How Are Lipomas Treated?

For most patients, a lipoma will not pose a health risk nor cause any pain. However, it can cause notable cosmetic concerns, especially if present in a visible body area. Surgical removal offers a quick, safe, and effective way to fully remove the growth.

Lipoma Removal at a Glance

Anesthesia: Local anesthetic only
Duration: Typically less than 30 minutes
Technique: Surgical excision or liposuction

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Lipoma FAQs

Can lipomas be cancerous?

Almost all cases of lipoma will remain benign (noncancerous). While the growth may look or feel unpleasant, it will pose no risk to your health. In very rare cases, a lipoma may develop into a liposarcoma, which would be cancerous. We recommend consulting with a specialist if you notice any changes in the lipoma, such as size, pain, or other symptoms.

Additionally, we advise individuals to always seek out medical expertise when you notice a skin growth. While many skin growths are benign, others can put your health at risk.

What are the risks of lipoma removal?

Lipoma removal has a very high safety profile. It involves simple excision or liposuction techniques, with minimal damage to the surrounding tissues. You can keep your risk of complications to a minimum in two key ways:

Work with a skilled surgeon. In particular, a surgeon with experience in liposuction will know how to remove fat while keeping the surrounding area intact.
Follow all post-op instructions. Keep the incision site clean and take any steps recommended by your surgeon.

How long is recovery after lipoma removal?

It typically takes the surgical site about 2 to 3 weeks to completely heal. However, the procedure has virtually no downtime. You can return home the same day as your lipoma removal. Furthermore, you can return to office-based work the following day, in most cases.

What are the risk factors for lipoma?

The precise causes of lipomas remain a mystery. However, research has identified several notable risk factors that can increase your likelihood of developing this growth. These include:

Age between 40 and 60
Family history of lipoma
Physical trauma to the body
Certain types of injections (e.g., insulin, corticosteroids)
Obesity and diabetes

How much does lipoma removal cost?

The cost of lipoma removal tends to depend on the skill of the surgeon and the complexity of the individual case. During your consultation, we provide a clear quote for your lipoma removal cost. This includes a breakdown of the costs.

When lipoma removal is considered medically necessary, insurance may cover it. Past cases in which insurance covered lipoma removal include:

A painful lipoma
A lipoma that impairs bodily function (circulation, joint movement)
A lipoma showing rapid growth
Malignant liposarcoma

Book Your Consultation

Dr. Gabbay is a board-certified plastic surgeon working in Beverly Hills with patients from across the nation. Schedule a consultation with him today to see if you qualify for lipoma removal. His expertise in lipoma removal delivers full growth removal with aesthetic outcomes.

At Gabbay Plastic Surgery, our team is prepared to help you feel radiant and confident. Call us today at (310) 205-9500 to schedule your appointment or to learn more about how we can help!