Most individuals might not be aware of the term “lipoma”; if you are one of them as well, then you might understand this term through its specific symptoms. Feeling a soft jelly bean on your neck, shoulder, arms or thighs that is quite visible is associated with a lipoma. Now that you have got the name for those rubbery and squishy lumps over any part of your body, it is crucial to understand the right treatment as well. Usually, lipoma treatment is a game of wait and watch, as they get better without treatment; also, sometimes they don’t even cause any pain. However, if you notice rapid growth in their size, which gradually starts affecting your overall look and confidence, then surgical incision becomes a great option.
But, hold on! There are a few instances of lipoma recurrence after a few days following the initial surgery, which strongly indicates an incomplete surgical procedure. Although lipoma removal scar recurrence is rare, at about 1% to 5%, it entirely depends on the incision type and the specific technique used for lipoma removal.
Welcome to this blog post, where you’ll be introduced to the reasons why lipoma removal surgery includes the chances of recurrence and large scars, so continue reading.
Which types of surgical techniques are used for lipoma removal?
Different surgical techniques have been used for lipoma removal; the specific technique is selected based on the exact size of the lipoma, the number of lipomas you have and your personal and medical assessment.
- This includes the incision made over the lipoma to thoroughly separate it from the surrounding tissue and remove it precisely.
- Since the lipoma capsule is removed entirely, the risk of recurrence through this surgical technique is quite low, at under 5 %.
- It is performed for any size of lipoma and when only the surgical removal technique is left.
- Minimal excision
- This surgical technique is quite different from the traditional one, including the small incisions through which the lipoma is removed after squeezing.
- This is quite applicable for lipomas that are smaller in size and usually raise cosmetic concerns.
- Due to the squeezing and extraction technique, the risk of recurrence is quite high due to an incomplete lipoma removal process.
- This includes the process of making small incisions and inserting a thin tube through them.
- The lipoma is suctioned out through it, though it results in minimal scarring but does not guarantee complete lipoma removal.
- Endoscopic removal
- This includes a tiny camera and endoscopic techniques for the precise removal of lipoma.
- This is usually done in complex cases where the traditional or surgical incision becomes quite challenging.
What leads to large scars and recurrence after lipoma removal surgery?
First, understand what leads to lipoma regrowth:-
It is important for you to understand that the lipoma recurrence rate is quite low, according to studies by the National Library of Medicine; however, its recurrence depends entirely on the specific type of surgical incision and an incomplete removal.
- An incomplete removal of the fatty tissue through the excision leaves behind the capsules, which grow back gradually with time.
- Sometimes, you might mistake the new growth of lipoma surrounding the old area as the recurrence of lipoma.
- Most importantly, if the lipoma recurs, then it might also indicate a misdiagnosed malignancy, which your doctors might have missed.
- Removing the lipoma through liposuction has a much higher chance of lipoma recurrence, as it involves removing the soft tissue rather than the capsule.
Now, what leads to large scars:-
Lipoma removal scar recurrence timeline generally starts gradually, over days and months.
- When the incision is not closed with proper technique, the skin’s edges will start pulling apart, causing scars over the specific area.
- The specific area of the body that requires high movement can result in stretching, which eventually leads to scars after the surgery.
- The lipoma, which is generally large in size, requires more extensive surgical excision, leaving large scars.
What are the risks associated with the lipoma removal surgery?
- Infection can occur at the surgical site, which is quite uncommon, along with minor bleeding beneath the skin tissue.
- Although all surgical techniques leave scars eventually, their visibility depends on the specific location and the incision size.
- If the lipomas are close to the nerves, then the surgery might lead to temporary or permanent nerve damage.
- If the lipomas are generally larger in size, it might leave visible marks on the skin.
- If you have any medical condition, then you might experience delayed healing along with poor cosmetic results after the surgery.
The Bottom Line!
Summing up the above-mentioned lines, you might have apparently understood the factors leading to lipoma recurrence and large scars after the lipoma removal surgery. However, this cannot be everyone’s case; this only demonstrates the possibilities after the surgery. Also, if you understand the right techniques that must be followed for lipoma removal scar recurrence aftercare, then your scars can be managed.
If you have been struggling with lipoma, then schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider in order to get the right guidance and solution. You can even ask about your specific concerns regarding lipoma removal scar recurrence in Vikhakhaptanam to get precise answers. We, the experts at VJ’s Cosmetic Surgery and Hair Transplantation Centre, also provide different cosmetic surgeries, tailored to custom needs with the aim of boosting self-esteem. Meet our qualified expert, Dr. C. Vijay Kumar, who has gained knowledge in performing jar loss treatments along with cosmetic surgery.
FAQs
- How long is the procedure of lipoma removal?
Generally, lipomas can be removed within 20 to 45 minutes; however, if the lipomas are larger in size, then it might take some more time to be removed.
- Is it necessary to get surgery if the lipomas grow back again?
No, it is not necessary to choose a surgical method again if the lipoma has regrown; you can discuss it with your healthcare provider before proceeding further.
- What is another option for lipoma removal than surgical excision?
Steroid injections, liposuction and other alternative treatments are still available to remove lipomas other than surgical excision.
- Does lipoma recurrence mean they are cancerous?
It does not directly indicate that such lipomas are cancerous; however, incomplete removal- surgery is one of the major reasons- can lead to recurrence. Still, make sure to discuss with your healthcare provider whether those regrown lipomas are cancerous or not.
- How to hide the scars after lipoma removal surgery?
You can choose any topical care after discussing with your healthcare provider to apply over the scar for less visibility.
- Are scars after lipoma removal surgery permanent?
Yes, the scars can be permanent; however, they usually get flattened or less visible with time.