A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of fatty tissue that develops just under the skin. They are typically soft, painless, and most often appear on the trunk, shoulders, neck, or armpits.
Lipomas can occur at any age, however they are most common in adults aged 40 to 60.
If you are experiencing a lump that is painful, increasing in size and measures more than 5cms then we are unable to remove it without an MRI or Ultrasound report to exclude any sinister features.
We only treat patients aged 18 and over
(All Lipoma are sent to histology after removal)
IMPORTANT – CRITERIA FOR LIPOMA REMOVAL
What will happen?
Lipoma Removal is performed through Surgical Excision. The procedure takes place under local anaesthetic and lasts approximately 40 minutes. An incision is made in the skin, the Lipoma is removed and sent to Histology. The wound is then closed with sutures, and a dressing is applied. (* Sutures will be removed after 7-10 days Additional appointment cost will apply of £65). A linear scar following the procedure is normal and usually fades away over time. You will be informed of Histology results when they are processed at the lab.
Important things to know
Consent
Before giving consent, the you must understand the alternatives available (that may include not treating the lipoma), what to expect at the operation and post-operatively, including possible complications.
This information will be included in your written consent form. It will also be discussed prior to the procedure to ensure you are fully happy to proceed and understand.
AREAS WE CANNOT TREAT
We DO NOT remove lipomas in the:
- BREAST
- UNDERARMS
- NECK
- FACE
- GENITALS
- ANUS
SCARRING
There is 100% chance of scarring!
After the initial procedure the scar will be red and inflamed but over time this will fade and become less noticeable.
If you have a history of Keloid Scars then please tell your clinician as this increases your risk of an unsightly scar
Histology
The Nurse Clinic sends all excised lesions to Histology for diagnosis. This helps aid diagnosis, protect patients but also adheres to the latest clinical guidelines.
What looks like a harmless lesion could be something totally different.
Early and accurate diagnosis is vital and misidentifying a growth can lead to a patient delaying treatment.
You will be informed of the histology results by encrypted email.
Sterile environment
All minor surgery is performed within a sterile environment. This is crucial during any surgical procedure, even minor surgery and adheres to CQC, NMC and all clinical safety guidelines.
Non-sterile conditions can introduce bacteria and increasing the risk of infection and delayed healing
The surgical equipment used at The Nurse Clinic is single use
is this normal?
The first couple of days your wound may be tender and may bleed slightly when doing wound care.
There may be swelling and bruising around the wound
The area around your wound may be numb for several weeks or even months.
You may experience periodic sharp pain as the wound heals.
The stitch line will look dark pink at first and the edges of the wound will be reddened. This will lighten day by day
POST OPERATIVE BLEEDING
Leave the dressing on and keep it dry. If it should come loose, you may retape it, but do not take it off.
No vigorous exercise or heavy lifting or alcohol. This could cause the wound to bleed.
Post-operative pain is usually mild. You may take paracetamol (if not allergic or any interactions). This can be started as soon as you get home. Do not take aspirin or any drugs such as Nurofen.
You may see a small amount of drainage or blood on your pressure bandage. This is normal. However, if the drainage or bleeding continues and saturates the bandage, please do as follows:
Apply firm pressure with a gauze swab over the bandage for 15 minutes.
If bleeding still continues, apply an ice pack for 15 minutes to the bandaged area. Placing a bag of frozen peas into a dry plastic bag can make a simple ice pack. This avoids wetting the bandage.
If bleeding still continues, call our department during office hours or go to A&E.
infection / Nerve damage
Infection can occur after the procedure. This may present as heat, redness, weeping or pus from the wound.
Nerve damage is rare.
If you experience a fever or any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately for assessment and possible treatment.
aftercare
Lipoma removal involves removal of sutures after 7-10 days. This will incur an additional £65 appointment charge.
Appointments can be booked online under “wound care” where you will find the Removal of sutures appointment option or you can call us.
Links to research used to support practice at The Nurse Clinic
Frequently asked questions
A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of fatty tissue that develops just under the skin.
No.
The Nurse Clinic CANNOT remove Lipoma from the following areas:
- BREAST
- GENITALS
- ANAL AREA
- FACE
- MOUTH
- HANDS
- FEET
The Nurse Clinic can remove lipoma under 5 cms (or larger if an MRI or ultrasound has confirmed that the lipoma is benign)
Yes, in line with clinical guidelines, once the sample is removed it is sent to histology for diagnosis to exclude any sinister features and confirm diagnosis
Every effort is made to aim for complete removal of the lipoma, however there is a small chance that it could reoccur. It is uncommon.
Lipomas can also reoccur due to medical conditions.
You will require an appointment for the stitches to be removed. This will happen 7-10 days after the procedure.
The cost of this review is £65 and includes:
- Removal of stitches
- Review of Post Op Wound
- Dressing if required.
Alternatively, this can be arranged at your GP surgery if they are williing to accommodate this and have appointment availability.
The Nurse Clinic Skin Services
Click on any of the links below to find out more. Whether it is to cure or reassure we will be here for you.