Lipomas are benign (non cancerous) growths of adipose (fat) cells under the skin. These are common and can range in size from just a few millimeters to 30cm. Most lipomas cause no problems, and people learn to live with them. However, there are some circumstances when surgical excision is needed. Sometimes further investigations are needed such as an ultrasound or an MRI. The main reasons Mr Patel would recommend removal are:
- Rapid growth in size
- Lipoma causing symptoms, such as pain
- Patients’ concerns and you want it removed
The surgical excision of lipomas is a relatively straight-forward surgery, and is something that Mr Patel performs regularly. Surgery is usually a day procedure, performed under a general anaesthetic. There are minimal complications.