A lipoma is a soft, harmless lump made of fat that sits just under the skin. Many people notice them slowly growing over time. While lipomas are not dangerous, they can become uncomfortable, get in the way, or cause concern because of how they look or feel.
At The Interface Clinic, lipoma removal is carried out safely, carefully, and with the aim of keeping patients comfortable throughout.
What Is a Lipoma?
A lipoma is a non-cancerous (benign) fatty lump. These lumps are usually:
- Soft to touch
- Easily moveable
- Slow-growing
- Found on areas like the neck, shoulders, back, arms, or thighs
The exact cause is not always clear, but family history and minor injury may play a role. Lipomas do not turn into cancer; however, it’s still important for a clinician to examine any new lump to confirm the diagnosis.
When Should You Consider Lipoma Removal?
Many lipomas can simply be monitored. However, removal is recommended if the lipoma:
- Becomes painful or tender
- Keeps growing or changes in texture
- Gets in the way of movement
- Causes cosmetic worry or daily discomfort
A consultation at The Interface Clinic helps confirm that the lump behaves like a typical lipoma. If anything looks unusual, further checks may be advised through the proper medical pathway.
Please note:
Every lipoma removed at The Interface Clinic is routinely sent for analysis. This is a safety measure to check for any uncommon but possible abnormal or suspicious cells. We do this to keep our practice as safe and responsible as possible. We do not offer Lipoma removal without histological analysis. Our quoted price includes this safety measure.
How Lipoma Removal Is Done
Lipoma removal at The Interface Clinic is a simple, minor procedure performed under local anaesthetic. This means the area is fully numbed, and you remain awake and comfortable.
Step-by-step overview:
- The area is cleaned and marked.
- Local anaesthetic is used to numb the skin.
- A small cut is made over the lump.
- The lipoma is gently freed and removed in one piece, including the capsule, to reduce the chance of it growing back.
- The cut is closed with neat stitches.
The procedure usually takes 20–45 minutes, depending on the size and position of the lipoma. More than one lipoma can be removed during the same appointment if appropriate.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery after lipoma removal is generally straightforward. Most patients go back to normal activities quite quickly.
Common and expected symptoms for a few days include:
- Mild swelling
- Light bruising
- Tenderness in the area
General aftercare advice:
- Keep the area clean and dry for the first 48 hours
- Avoid strenuous activity until stitches are removed or you are advised otherwise
- Look out for increasing redness or discharge
- Attend follow-up appointments for stitch removal and wound checks
All removed tissue is sent for analysis, and you will be contacted if any unexpected findings arise—although this is uncommon.
Why Patients Choose The Interface Clinic
Choosing someone experienced in removing lipomas is important for both safety and good healing. At The Interface Clinic, we focus on:
- Accurate assessment before any procedure
- Safe, careful surgical technique
- Minimal scarring where possible
- Low recurrence risk, as the capsule is removed
- Clear aftercare guidance and support
Patients can expect a calm, reassuring experience from start to finish, with every step explained clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is lipoma removal painful?
No. The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic. Some mild soreness afterward is normal and settles quickly.
2. Will the lipoma come back?
If the whole lipoma and its capsule are removed, regrowth is uncommon. However, some people naturally develop new lipomas in other areas over time.
3. Do I need my lipoma tested after removal?
Yes. At The Interface Clinic, all removed lipomas are routinely sent for analysis. This is a safety step to check for any rare abnormal cells.
Conclusion
Lipoma removal is a simple and safe procedure when carried out by someone experienced in managing skin lumps. At The Interface Clinic, we prioritise patient safety, clear communication, and careful technique so that each patient feels supported from consultation through to recovery.
If you are looking for doctors that remove lipomas safely and effectively, The Interface Clinic offers a calm, thorough, and clinically responsible approach to care.
