Lipoma/cyst excision

Surgical removal under local anesthesia of benign soft-tissue masses (lipoma, sebaceous cyst, epidermal cyst) located beneath the skin.

Indication

• Lipomas (fat tissue masses) that are growing in size or causing discomfort
• Sebaceous or epidermal cysts with recurrent inflammation
• Subcutaneous masses that are visible or cosmetically bothersome
• Masses causing pressure or pain during clothing wear or movement
• Lesions with possible malignant features that grow rapidly or become firm
• Subcutaneous masses requiring pathological examination for diagnostic confirmation

Preparation

• If blood thinners are being used, they are temporarily discontinued with physician approval
• The skin area is kept clean before the procedure; perfumes and creams are not applied
• If there is an active skin infection, antibiotic treatment is completed first
• Since local anesthesia is preferred, fasting is generally not required (per physician's recommendation)

How it's performed

1. The lesion area is sterilized and isolated with sterile drapes
2. Local anesthetic is administered subcutaneously with a fine needle, numbing the area
3. A small incision appropriate to the lesion is made on the skin
4. The lipoma or cyst is separated from the surrounding tissue and removed in one piece
5. The removed tissue is sent to the pathology laboratory as a specimen
6. The incision is closed with aesthetic suturing technique and a dry dressing is applied

Post-procedure

• The procedure ends with same-day discharge; no hospital admission is required
• The dressing is kept dry for 24-48 hours; bathing is permitted with physician approval
• Suture removal is planned within 7-14 days, depending on lesion location
• Pathology results are shared with the patient by the physician
• Silicone gel or tape may be recommended for scar care

Risks

• Temporary redness, swelling, and tenderness at the incision site
• Wound infection (rare, approximately 1-2%)
• Scarring or keloid formation on the skin
• Recurrence in the same area (especially when cysts are not completely removed)
• Rare allergic reaction to the local anesthetic

FAQ

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