Lipomas: When to Consider Surgical Removal and Costs

Hello, I would like to inquire about lipomas?

I apologize, but one day in high school while showering, I noticed a slightly soft small lump on the right side of my buttocks near the anus.
I didn't think much of it until I got to college, when I realized it seemed to be getting larger.
I went to the hospital to see a doctor, but I wasn't sure which department to visit, so I went to the colorectal surgery department.
The doctor suspected it might be a lipoma, but he wasn't certain.
He mentioned that it could be removed or left as is.
At that time, it was approximately 3 cm in size.
Now, I've noticed that sitting for long periods makes me uncomfortable, possibly due to pressure on it, and I find it hard to sit still.
I also measured it again and it seems to be close to 4 cm now.
I'm unsure whether I should have it removed, whether it will leave a scar, and how much the surgery might cost.

Zhang Juzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/30

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery

Hello, this location is quite special; it could be a lipoma, an epidermoid cyst, or something else.
It needs to be excised and examined to determine what it is.
Allowing it to grow larger could lead to more complications.
Any surgery will leave a scar, but most of these procedures are covered by health insurance, so you shouldn't have to spend much money.

Reply Date: 2023/03/30

More Info

When considering the surgical removal of a lipoma, there are several factors to take into account, including the size, location, symptoms, and potential risks associated with the procedure. A lipoma is a benign tumor composed of fatty tissue, and while they are generally harmless, they can sometimes cause discomfort or other issues depending on their size and location.

In your case, you've mentioned that the lipoma is located near the anal area and has grown from approximately 3 cm to nearly 4 cm. The discomfort you experience while sitting could indeed be attributed to the pressure exerted by the lipoma. While many lipomas do not require surgical intervention, it is advisable to consider removal if they cause pain, discomfort, or if they are growing in size.
Surgical removal of a lipoma is typically a straightforward outpatient procedure. The surgeon will make an incision over the lipoma, remove it, and then close the incision with sutures. One of the common concerns patients have is the potential for scarring. While any surgical procedure will leave some degree of a scar, the extent of scarring can vary based on factors such as the surgical technique used, the location of the incision, and your individual healing process. Surgeons often aim to make incisions in less visible areas to minimize scarring.

As for the costs associated with lipoma removal, it can vary widely depending on several factors, including the healthcare facility, the surgeon's fees, anesthesia costs, and whether the procedure is covered by insurance. In many cases, if the lipoma is symptomatic or causing discomfort, it may be covered by health insurance, which could significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. If you are paying out of pocket, the total cost for lipoma removal can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the facility where it is performed.

It's crucial to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns. They can provide a physical examination and determine whether the lipoma should be removed. If you decide to proceed with surgery, your doctor will explain the procedure, the anesthesia options (which are typically local anesthesia for lipoma removal), and what to expect during recovery.

In summary, while lipomas are generally benign and may not require removal, your increasing discomfort and the growth of the lipoma are valid reasons to consider surgical intervention. Discussing your options with a qualified healthcare provider will help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with surgery and what the associated costs may be.

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