About the Procedure
Lipoma excision removes a noncancerous fatty growth from beneath the skin through an incision over the lump. It may be considered when a lipoma is enlarging, uncomfortable, or otherwise bothersome. At Norelle Health in New York City, the care team evaluates the lump and discusses removal and what to expect.
What the Procedure Involves
Lipoma excision is a minor surgical procedure that removes a noncancerous fatty growth from beneath the skin. The surgical team makes an incision over the lump and removes the lipoma, often along with its surrounding capsule, then closes the incision. It is commonly performed in an outpatient setting.
Considering lipoma excision? The next step is a quiet, unhurried conversation.
Who May Be a Candidate
Excision may be considered when a lipoma is enlarging, uncomfortable, pressing on nearby structures, or a cosmetic or diagnostic concern. Small, painless lipomas can often simply be monitored. The team reviews the size, location, and your goals when discussing whether removal is appropriate.
How It Is Performed
The area is numbed with local anesthesia for many lipomas, though larger or deeper growths may require additional anesthesia. The surgical team removes the fatty growth through an incision and closes the wound, sometimes sending the tissue for examination to confirm the diagnosis. The approach is tailored to the size and location of the lipoma.
Recovery and Outlook
Most people resume routine activities soon after the procedure, following the wound care guidance the care team provides. Removing a lipoma addresses that growth, though a new one can occasionally develop elsewhere. Scarring depends on the size and location of the lipoma, and the team can discuss what to expect.
Specialists who perform lipoma excision
Dr. Youssef Mourad
MD
General Surgeon
Dr. Youssef Mourad is a general surgeon who cares for a range of general surgical conditions, including hernias, gallbladder disease, appendicitis, and soft-tissue masses, with experience in minimally invasive approaches.
- Hernia repair (inguinal, umbilical, ventral, and incisional)
- Gallbladder surgery (laparoscopic cholecystectomy)
- Appendectomy
- Lipoma and cyst excision
Not sure who to see? Our patient coordination team can help match you with the right specialist.
(212) 444-8006Frequently Asked Questions
The area is typically numbed with local anesthesia, so discomfort during the procedure is usually limited. Mild soreness afterward is common and is managed with the care team's guidance.
Any excision leaves some scar, and its appearance depends on the size and location of the lipoma. The team aims to keep the incision as small as is safely possible while removing the growth.
Removing a lipoma addresses that specific growth, though a new lipoma can occasionally form in another area. Your care team can discuss what to watch for.
Coverage varies by plan and may depend on whether removal is considered medically necessary. We recommend confirming benefits with your insurer.
Related Conditions
1 of 2 · Lipoma
Related Procedures
1 of 2 · Cyst Excision
Request a consultation about lipoma excision
Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss whether this procedure is the right option for you.