Shop Skincare

Lipomas

Vancouver’s leading plastic surgery group.Beautiful Results. Personalized Service.

Request a Consultation

Lipomas in Vancouver

When it comes to our overall health, addressing non-threatening concerns on the body is just as important as addressing the threatening ones. Receiving treatments that address the aesthetic appearance of the body makes a huge impact on the way we see ourselves, leading to an increase in confidence and self-esteem. For those who are frustrated with or distracted by the appearance of lipomas on their skin, Pacific Plastic Surgery Group offers treatment to remove them, restoring the appearance of smooth and even skin.

What are Lipomas?

A lipoma is a non-threatening fatty lump between your skin and the underlying layer of muscle. They grow slowly over time and are commonly detected in middle age. They can be small or large and often feel doughy to the touch. They can be moved around when pressure is applied, and they are usually painless. The most common locations on the body where lipomas can grow include the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms, or thighs. In very rare cases, they can become cancerous, but you don’t have to wait for your lipoma to become life-threatening to have it removed.

Before & Afters

before and after minor surgery

The lipoma on this patient’s back bothered her significantly when working out and she opted for surgical removal. Dr Roller excised this large 7cm x 4cm lipoma and photos were taken at the 3month follow-up.

before and after minor surgery

The large lipoma had been present on this person’s back for many years and wasn’t growing significantly. This 6cm x 5cm lipoma was excised by Dr Roller and the incision was closed with disolving sutures.

before and after minor surgery

Our patient had several lumpy growths which had developed and grown over an eight year period. Although benign he opted for surgical removal. Dr Roller excised the lipoma and closed with disolving sutures.

before and after minor surgery

Our patient had a lipoma for several years which bothered her. She opted for surgical excision with Dr Roller.

before and after minor surgery

The scalp lipoma had been present on our patients head for approximately 6 years. He chose to have it surgically removed with Dr Roller with dissolving sutures. The photo was taken only 6 weeks after removal and the scar will continue to fade and lighten with time.

before and after minor surgery

Our very fit and active patient was bothered by 3 lipomas on her abdomen. Dr Roller excised each lipoma and closed with dissolving sutures. Photos taken 3 months after removal and the scars will continue to lighten and fade with time.

Who Is a Candidate for Lipoma Removal?

The ideal candidate for lipoma removal is any individual seeking to have their lipoma removed due to aesthetic or health concerns. Individuals may desire to have their lipomas removed if they are overly bothersome, painful, or are growing at a rapid rate. Candidates also include those individuals who are bothered by the appearance of their lipoma and wish to have it removed to improve their aesthetic appearance. Ideal candidates are in good overall health and maintain realistic expectations regarding the results of their lipoma removal.

Lipoma Treatment

While lipoma removal is not always necessary, removal is possible via a couple of different techniques. Lipomas will be removed via an excision technique. Your provider will create a small incision over the lipoma before removing it. In some cases, the lipoma may be dissected while still in the body in order to separate it safely from the surrounding tissue before being removed. The incision is then expertly closed with tiny sutures.

Lipoma Treatment Recovery and Results

Immediately following your lipoma removal, you may experience soreness and bruising. This will subside over the next couple of days. You will be asked to take it easy by avoiding strenuous activity for at least a week. You will have an appointment to return 5-10 days after your surgery to have the tiny sutures removed. As lipomas are genetic, there is always a possibility of larger lipomas growing back over time. Small lipomas typically do not come back after removal.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have lipomas on your body and would like to discuss their safe removal, schedule a consultation at Pacific Plastic Surgery Group in Vancouver, BC, by filling out our online contact form. Let us help you experience renewed confidence today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do fatty lipomas go away?

Unlike cysts which can burst, lipomas are a collection of fatty cells and so they will always stay contained within the skin.

Can a lipoma burst?

Unlike cysts which can burst, lipomas are a collection of fatty cells and so they will always stay contained within the skin.

What happens to untreated lipoma?

A simple lipoma beneath the skin can be left untreated and in most cases will cause no bother. It is very possible that the lipoma will continue to grow over time if left untreated, and they can become quite substantial in size. Although many large lipomas do not cause any symptoms, they can be bothersome or rub on clothes.

How do I get rid of lipoma?

Lipomas can be removed with a simple office procedure which is performed with local numbing to the skin. It is safe and effective and you can go home, or back to work, on the same day. Typically lipomas are excised (cut out) however, in some cases lipomas can be removed with liposuction.

What is the main cause of lipoma?

Lipomas are fatty lumps and are very common. These lumps are benign, meaning that they are not cancerous. The reason for the growth of lipomas is not fully understood. They are inherited, meaning that families pass them down, so genetics play a large role. If a member of your family has a lipoma, your chances of getting one are higher.

Request a Consultation

You deserve the best solutions to achieve your positive body image. Consult with top plastic surgeons in Vancouver and rest of BC.

I would like to subscribe the newsletters