Lipoma Removal Surgery

Lipoma removal surgery, also known as lipoma excision or lipomectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove benign fatty tumours (lipomas) that develop under the skin. These soft, slow-growing lumps consist of excess fat cells enclosed in a thin capsule and can develop anywhere on the body. While most lipomas are harmless, some may grow large, cause discomfort, or affect movement, making surgical removal necessary. Lipoma removal can be performed using minimally invasive techniques or traditional surgical excision, depending on the size, location, and depth of the growth.

Why Cuba

In Cuba, lipoma removal procedures are carefully planned and performed by highly experienced surgeons to ensure optimal results while minimizing scarring and preserving surrounding tissues. The country’s reputation for high-quality medical care allows patients to benefit from thorough preoperative assessments, precise surgical removal, and attentive post-operative care to enhance healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Cuban medical centers provide both traditional excision and minimally invasive lipoma removal techniques, allowing surgeons to customize the approach based on the size, depth, and location of the lipoma, as well as the patient’s individual needs. With a focus on patient safety, cosmetic outcomes, and affordability, Cuba remains a top choice for individuals seeking effective and expertly performed lipoma removal surgery.

What are Lipomas

A lipoma is a soft, slow-growing lump composed of excess fat cells that accumulate beneath the skin, forming a distinct, palpable mass within the subcutaneous tissue (fat layer). These growths are non-cancerous (benign) tumours, meaning they do not spread to other parts of the body or pose a direct threat to overall health. Lipomas can vary in size, shape, and texture, with some remaining small and relatively unnoticed, while others gradually expand over time. Although they are generally painless and mobile, meaning they move slightly when pressed, their presence can sometimes cause concern due to their visible nature or potential to grow larger.

Lipomas result from the overgrowth and clustering of fat cells, leading to the formation of a localized fatty mass encased in a thin, fibrous capsule. While their development is typically slow and progressive, certain lipomas may enlarge more noticeably over the years. They often exhibit a soft, doughy consistency, and their mobility under the skin differentiates them from other types of masses. In most cases, lipomas remain stable and do not require medical intervention, but their presence can sometimes be cosmetically bothersome or cause mild discomfort, prompting individuals to seek professional evaluation.

Characteristics of Lipomas 

• Soft and doughy to the touch.
• Movable under the skin (not attached to deeper structures).
• Typically painless, though some may cause pressure or discomfort.
• Slow growing but may increase in size over time.

Causes of Lipomas

Despite being one of the most common benign soft tissue tumors, the precise biological mechanisms that trigger lipoma formation remain unclear. While research continues to explore potential contributing factors, the likelihood of developing a lipoma is influenced by various physiological and genetic factors. Some individuals may develop a single lipoma, while others may experience multiple growths over time. Although lipomas are generally harmless, their presence may raise concerns, particularly when they grow in size, become more prominent, or appear in multiple areas.

While the exact cause of lipomas remains unknown, several factors are believed to contribute to their formation:

• Genetic Predisposition: Lipomas tend to run in families, suggesting a genetic link.
• Trauma or Injury: Some studies suggest that physical trauma may trigger the formation of lipomas in certain individuals.
• Metabolic Disorders: Conditions such as obesity, lipid metabolism disorders, and diabetes may play a role in the development of lipomas.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: An underlying condition can cause a lipoma by disrupting normal fat cell regulation, leading to abnormal growth and accumulation of adipose tissue within a fibrous capsule.

Symptoms of Lipomas

Most lipomas do not cause symptoms and are discovered incidentally during routine exams. However, in some cases, symptoms may include:

• A visible, soft lump under the skin that may grow over time.
• Mild discomfort or tenderness, especially if the lipoma presses against nerves.
• Restriction of movement if located near joints or muscles.
• Painful or deep-seated lipomas, which may indicate nerve involvement.

Pre-Surgical Diagnosis

Before surgery, a doctor will evaluate the lipoma using the following methods:

• Physical Examination: Assessing the size, texture, and mobility of the lump.
• Ultrasound: To confirm whether the mass is a lipoma or another type of growth.
• MRI or CT Scan: Recommended for deep-seated or large lipomas to assess their relationship with underlying structures.
• Biopsy (if needed): In rare cases where malignancy is suspected, a small tissue sample is analyzed.

Surgical treatment Options for Lipoma

Surgical removal of a lipoma is not always necessary, but it may be recommended in certain cases where the growth causes discomfort, functional limitations, or aesthetic concerns.

Surgical removal may be recommended if:

• The lipoma is large (>5 cm) or rapidly growing may require excision to prevent further enlargement and complications.
• It causes pain, tenderness, or discomfort due to pressure on nerves or muscles.
• There is restricted mobility due to the lipoma’s location.
• There are cosmetic concerns, especially if the lipoma is in a visible area.
• There is suspicion of malignancy may require excision for further evaluation and biopsy (though rare, some soft tissue tumors resemble lipomas).

Lipoma removal can be performed using minimally invasive or traditional surgical techniques, depending on size, depth, and location.

Surgical Excision (Traditional Lipoma Removal)

• Most common method for large, deep, or multiple lipomas.
• A small incision is made over the lipoma, and the entire mass is carefully removed along with its capsule to prevent recurrence.
• Performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity.
• Minimal risk of recurrence since the entire lipoma is excised.

Minimally Invasive Liposuction

• Suitable for soft, non-fibrous lipomas where minimal scarring is desired.
• A tiny incision is made, and a thin tube (cannula) is inserted to suction out the fatty tissue.
• Less scarring but may not fully remove the lipoma capsule, increasing the risk of recurrence.

Punch Incision Extraction

• Used for small lipomas.
• A small circular incision is made to extract the lipoma with minimal scarring.
• Quick procedure with minimal downtime.