A lipoma is a benign tumour composed of mature fat cells (normal fatty tissue) that usually appears subcutaneously (between the skin and the underlying muscle). Lipomas are almost always non-cancerous. A lipoma can develop anywhere on the body, but they tend to appear most often on the head, neck, shoulders, and back.
A lipoma removal is a medical procedure that allows the extraction and removal of these benign tumours from any part of the body. This treatment is performed by our Double-Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Kristy Bailey.
Most lipomas are surgically removed using local anesthesia and performed without the need for hospitalization. This surgery is performed by our Surgical Dermatologist Dr. Kristy Bailey. Once the lipoma is surgically excised, the wound is stitched using sutures which will typically be removed after 2 weeks.
Lipoma Removal Treatment Details
What lipoma removal techniques are available?
Lipomas are almost always harmless. If a lipoma is cosmetically concerning, then it can be removed. Lipoma removal techniques:
Surgical removal – Most lipomas are surgically removed through a scalpel cut. Recurrence after surgical removal can occur. Surgical excision will leave a linear scar where the lipoma was excised.
Deoxycholic acid – This is a scarless way to remove lipomas. The enzyme deoxycholic acid (a.k.a Belkyra) is injected into the lipoma to dissolve it. It can take 6 or more treatments to remove the lipoma depending on the size. The main limiting factor is the cost associated with this scarless technique. Only an advanced and experienced Dermatologist should be trusted to conduct this technique. FCP Dermatology is one of the very few clinics that offer this procedure.
Lipoma Removal Procedure
What to expect during your lipoma removal
Before the procedure – Dr. Bailey will evaluate your skin, measure the area, ask about your medical history, and inform you about the most appropriate procedure for your case.
During the procedure – The lesion will be injected with local anesthetic. After the anesthetic takes effect, patients will feel no pain or discomfort. These procedures typically take 15-20 minutes depending on the size of the growth.
After the procedure – Avoid sun exposure and continue to follow post-surgical instructions given by Dr. Bailey. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours following the procedure to prevent bleeding.
Ongoing Care
At FCP Dermatology we are dedicated to the ongoing care of our patients to provide you with the best results possible.
Lipoma Removal Information
What are the possible side effects of a lipoma removal?
There are no absolute contraindications, but in the following cases Dr. Bailey will have a longer discussion with you:
These situations will be evaluated by Dr. Bailey who will indicate the most appropriate treatment in each case before performing the removal procedure.
FCP Dermatology is your Toronto Dermatology Clinic! Learn more about Lipoma removals by contacting us!
Is a lipoma removal safe?
A lipoma is a benign tumour composed of mature fat cells. Lipoma removals are safe when performed by trained Surgical Dermatologists with the proper tools and experience to perform the procedure. Lipoma removals are performed by our Double Board-Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Kristy Bailey. At FCP Dermatology, every tissue removed is sent to an exclusive specialized Dermatopathologist for review.
Lipomas are typically removed in one session unless a re-excision is required.
This procedure is performed by our Double-Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Kristy Bailey.
Generally, lipomas are removed for cosmetic purposes.
Lipoma removal is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by OHIP.
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