Having a lipoma removed can be fairly easy, or it can be complex depending on the location and size of the lump. Some are located just under the skin and are simple to remove, but others may sit deeper or near nerves and need more careful surgery.
If you have had a lipoma removed or are planning to, you might be wondering what to expect after lipoma surgery. Today, we are going to provide an overview of lipoma removal recovery, pain after lipoma surgery, swelling after lipoma removal, and the time frame you can expect for your recovery.
Recovery Timeline after Lipoma Removal
Immediately After Lipoma Removal Surgery
Lipoma removal is almost always performed during an outpatient procedure, allowing you to go home the same day. The area where the lipoma was removed will be covered with a bandage, and you may feel some discomfort, swelling, or bruising around the incision site. This is normal and typically lasts only a few days. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen and ice packs applied in intervals for 15 to 20 minutes can help ease the discomfort and minimize the swelling and bruising.
First Week Of Recovery
After the first week, you should start to feel better, with the pain and swelling decreasing. You should be able to move around more easily, and any pain after your lipoma surgery should be minimal. If you have stitches that do not dissolve on their own, they will need to be removed after about 7 to 10 days. It is important to keep the surgical area clean and dry to prevent infection.
What To Expect Two Weeks After Lipoma Surgery
By the end of the second week, your incision site should be mostly healed, but you may notice a scar forming where the lipoma was removed. To help the incision heal well and reduce the appearance of a resulting scar, you can use topical creams or special silicone gels. These products keep the skin hydrated and can help flatten and fade the scar and reduce its appearance. You can normally start using them after the stitches are out and the wound is fully closed.
One Month After Lipoma Removal
Most people are fully recovered within 2 to 3 weeks, but it can take up to a month for the area to feel completely normal. You should follow your surgeon’s recommendations for resuming your normal activities, but usually you can return to light activities as you feel comfortable. Avoid strenuous exercise until your surgeon gives you the all clear.
Common Concerns After Lipoma Surgery
Some discomfort and pain after lipoma surgery is normal, especially in the first few days. Pain levels vary depending on the size and location of the lipoma. Most people find the pain manageable with over-the-counter medications, but your surgeon can provide prescription medication if needed.
Swelling after lipoma removal is common and usually peaks within 48 hours. It should gradually decrease over the next several days, but if the swelling persists or worsens, contact your doctor.
Once a lipoma is removed, it does not usually come back, but another lipoma can develop in a different area. Regular check-ins with your doctor can help monitor for any new growths.
When to Call Your Doctor
During lipoma removal recovery, it is important that you contact your surgeon if you begin to show signs of complications, such as:
- Increased redness, swelling, or warmth around the incision;
- Pus or unusual discharge;
- Fever or chills;
- Severe pain that does not improve with medication.
These could be signs of an infection or other complications that need urgent medical attention. Recovering from lipoma removal surgery is usually uncomplicated, and following your doctor’s aftercare instructions on how to take care of your incision will ensure your recovery goes quickly and smoothly.
If you suspect you have a lipoma and would like to learn more about lipoma removal surgery, contact IBI Plastic Surgery & Med Spa. Dr. Angelina Postoev, a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon, expertly performs lipoma removals for both men and women and uses advanced techniques to close the incision to significantly minimize scarring. Book your consultation today to learn more about lipoma removal and recovery.
