Surgical Removal of Lipomas – An Effective Method for Reducing Fatty Tumours
Do you have a lipoma that causes discomfort, is changing or that you would like to have removed? Surgical lipoma removal is performed under local anaesthesia and allows the lesion to be removed together with its capsule. A prior surgical consultation is required.
The first step is a surgical consultation. The doctor will assess the lesion, explain the procedure and discuss possible risks.
surgeon, surgical oncologist
surgeon
procedure under local anaesthesia, without hospitalisation
the removed lesion is assessed by a pathologist
Piotr Rak, MD and Dr Iwona Chruścicka
Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
What is a lipoma and when should it be removed?
A lipoma is a benign tumour made up of fat cells that develops beneath the skin or deeper within the tissues. It is usually soft, clearly separated from the surrounding tissue and movable under the fingers. Most lipomas do not pose a health risk, although some require removal and histopathological verification.
Lipoma removal may be indicated when the lesion causes pain or discomfort, grows rapidly, changes in consistency or appearance, is located in an area exposed to pressure or irritation, or requires confirmation of its benign nature through histopathological examination.
Important: not every subcutaneous lump is a lipoma. A clinical assessment and, when required, imaging such as ultrasound performed or ordered by a surgeon are necessary before deciding on treatment. Self-diagnosis based on the appearance of the lesion is not sufficient.
When should you see a surgeon?
- the lipoma grows over a short period,
- the lesion causes pain, pressure or discomfort,
- the lesion becomes hard, irregular or fixed,
- skin changes appear over the lipoma,
- the lesion is located in an area that interferes with daily activities,
- you want histopathological confirmation that the lesion is in fact a lipoma.
How is a lipoma removal procedure performed?
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia on an outpatient basis, without hospitalisation. The surgeon makes an incision over the lesion, removes the lipoma together with its capsule and closes the wound with sutures. The removed lesion is sent for histopathological examination.
The scope of the procedure, technique and type of anaesthesia depend on the location, size and number of lipomas. The surgeon discusses these matters individually during the consultation.
Why is histopathological examination performed?
The removed lesion is routinely sent for assessment by a pathologist. A histopathological examination confirms the benign nature of the lesion and excludes other diagnoses. It is part of diagnostic safety and does not mean that the doctor suspects a malignant lesion.
Contraindications to the procedure
- active infections in the planned treatment area,
- blood clotting disorders — assessed individually,
- certain medicines, including anticoagulants, which may require discontinuation or adjustment before the procedure,
- advanced systemic diseases — the decision is based on the consultation.
Every case requires an individual assessment by the surgeon during the consultation.
Recovery after the procedure
Healing varies between patients. Swelling, bruising and pain may occur at the excision site and gradually resolve. Typical postoperative recommendations include:
- keeping the wound clean and caring for it according to the surgeon’s instructions,
- avoiding strenuous physical activity for the period indicated by the doctor,
- attending the scheduled appointment for suture removal,
- contacting the clinic if concerning symptoms occur, such as increasing pain, redness or discharge from the wound.
The doctor discusses detailed recommendations individually with every patient after the procedure.
What does a surgical consultation include?
A consultation with a surgeon is mandatory before the procedure. The surgeon assesses the lesion and plans further management.
The surgeon examines the lesion clinically and assesses its location, size and nature. Ultrasound may be ordered if necessary. The surgeon determines whether the lesion is actually a lipoma and whether removal is indicated.
The doctor explains the operation, type of anaesthesia, possible complications, the risk of scarring and recovery. The patient has time to ask questions before making a decision.
If there are no contraindications and the patient provides informed consent, the surgeon schedules the procedure and provides preparation instructions and information about any required preoperative tests.
Surgeons performing the procedure
A surgeon and surgical oncologist experienced in removing skin and subcutaneous lesions, including lipomas. He conducts eligibility consultations and performs outpatient procedures.
A surgeon who removes skin and subcutaneous lesions, including lipomas, under local anaesthesia.
Would you like to have a lipoma removed in Gdańsk?
Book a surgical consultation. The doctor will assess the lesion and plan further management.
Frequently asked questions
Is lipoma removal painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so the patient does not feel pain during the excision itself. Discomfort or pain may occur at the incision site after the procedure and gradually subsides. The doctor explains the recommended management during the consultation.
Can a lipoma return after removal?
Surgical removal of the lipoma together with its capsule reduces the risk of recurrence, but does not eliminate it completely. Some patients may develop new lipomas in other locations. This is not a recurrence of the treated lesion, but a new lesion. The surgeon discusses this individually.
Does the procedure leave a scar?
Every surgical incision leaves a scar. Its size and visibility depend on the location and size of the lipoma, the suturing technique and the patient’s individual skin characteristics. The surgeon discusses the expected appearance of the scar during the consultation.
Does every lipoma need to be removed?
No. Many lipomas can simply be observed if they do not cause symptoms or raise concern. The decision to remove the lesion is made jointly by the surgeon and patient based on the clinical assessment, symptoms and the patient’s preferences.
How can I book a surgical consultation in Gdańsk?
A consultation can be booked by calling 600 006 913, through WhatsApp or through ZnanyLekarz. Lipoma removal procedures are performed by Piotr Rak, MD and Dr Iwona Chruścicka.
Related surgical services at Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej
Assessment of a skin lesion, treatment planning and eligibility for surgery.
Details →Assessment of the collected specimen by a pathologist as part of postoperative diagnostics.
Details →Surgeon and surgical oncologist — profile, range of services and appointment availability.
Profile →Surgeon — profile, range of services and appointment availability.
Profile →Book a surgical consultation in Gdańsk
Lipoma removal — assessment, eligibility and treatment at one clinic.
The information on this page is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace a medical consultation. Every skin and subcutaneous lesion requires assessment by a surgeon. Not every lesion requires removal. The decision is made by the doctor after examination. Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, 15 Toruńska Street, unit AU1, Gdańsk. Tel.: 600 006 913.