Why Do Lipomas Recur After Surgery? the Causes

I have a question?

Hello, my friend has had lipomas removed three times.
Why do they keep recurring?

Qi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/09/20

Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery

Hello, people who typically develop lipomas often have multiple lipomas on their bodies, but it is not feasible to remove them all at once, as that would result in numerous wounds.
Usually, the larger or symptomatic ones are addressed first.
Your friend is likely not experiencing a recurrence; it's just a matter of staged management.

Reply Date: 2010/09/20

More Info

Lipomas, which are benign tumors composed of adipose (fat) tissue, can recur after surgical removal for several reasons. Understanding these causes can help patients manage their expectations and make informed decisions about their treatment options.

1. Incomplete Removal: One of the most common reasons for the recurrence of a lipoma is incomplete excision during the initial surgery. If the surgeon does not remove the entire lipoma, including its capsule, remnants of the tumor can remain and potentially grow back. This is particularly important because lipomas can be encapsulated, meaning they have a fibrous covering that needs to be fully excised to prevent recurrence.

2. Multiple Lipomas: Some individuals are predisposed to developing multiple lipomas due to genetic factors. Conditions such as familial multiple lipomatosis can lead to the formation of multiple lipomas over time. In such cases, even if one lipoma is successfully removed, new ones may develop in different locations, giving the impression of recurrence.

3. Surgical Technique: The technique used during surgery can also influence the likelihood of recurrence. If the lipoma is not adequately separated from surrounding tissues or if the surgical site is not properly closed, it may lead to complications that can encourage the growth of new lipomas.

4. Location and Size: The location and size of the lipoma can also play a role in recurrence. Larger lipomas or those located in areas with more movement or tension (such as near joints) may have a higher chance of recurrence due to the stress placed on the surgical site during healing.

5. Post-Surgical Care: Proper post-operative care is crucial for healing and minimizing the risk of recurrence. If the surgical site is not kept clean or if there is excessive strain on the area, it could lead to complications that might encourage the growth of new lipomas.

6. Underlying Conditions: Certain metabolic or hormonal conditions may contribute to the development of lipomas. If an underlying condition is not addressed, it may lead to the formation of new lipomas even after previous ones have been surgically removed.

To manage the risk of recurrence, it is essential for patients to have a thorough discussion with their surgeon about the surgical approach, the likelihood of recurrence, and any necessary follow-up care. If a lipoma does recur, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for evaluation and potential re-excision.

In conclusion, while lipomas are generally benign and not harmful, their recurrence can be influenced by various factors, including surgical technique, genetic predisposition, and post-operative care. Understanding these factors can help patients navigate their treatment options and maintain realistic expectations regarding the management of lipomas. If you or someone you know is experiencing recurrent lipomas, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult a specialist who can provide tailored advice based on individual circumstances.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Recurrence Risks After Cyst Removal: What to Expect

Recently, my boyfriend had a lipoma located just below the sternum, which has now been surgically removed. I would like to know if there is a chance of recurrence after the removal, and what is the likelihood of it happening? What are the potential triggering factors?

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
If there was inflammation or infection prior to the excision, or if there is residual tissue after the excision, there is a chance of recurrence. However, there are no definitive statistical figures. Generally, as long as it is due to individual constitution, there are no true tr...

Understanding Lipomas: Concerns About Pain, Surgery, and Recurrence

Hello Doctor: 1. My lipoma on the back of my neck is painful; is this a sign of malignancy? 2. Can I schedule an appointment with a plastic surgeon? I'm concerned about having a noticeable scar. 3. After surgical removal, what is the likelihood of recurrence, and how can I...

Dr. Li Junde reply Surgery
Mr. Wang: Hello, I will address your questions one by one. (1) Lipomas are benign tumors, and whether they are painful or not is not directly related to malignant transformation. If a lipoma grows rapidly, it is advisable to remove it early for pathological examination to confirm...

Understanding Fistula Recurrence Rates After Surgery

Hello, doctor; I would like to ask you. A year ago, I underwent a fistula surgery at another hospital. This April, I started feeling pain and swelling near my buttocks. Could this possibly be related to the fistula? Is it possible for it to recur even after surgery? Thank you.

Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Fistulas may sometimes recur because the internal opening has healed, making it difficult to locate during surgery. If a recurrence does occur, surgery is necessary to accurately identify the internal opening and open it, which will help prevent further recurrences.

Do Stomach Issues Cause Lipomas? Understanding the Connection

Hello, Dr. Hsu: I apologize for my somewhat strange question. Two years ago, I had two lipomas under my right armpit. I went to a hospital for surgery, and the doctor said that one of them had disappeared, so they only removed one. For a while, there was no recurrence. However, s...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
I apologize for the delayed response. The likelihood of a correlation between the lipoma under your right armpit and your stomach discomfort is extremely low; these are two unrelated issues. To clarify the matter, I recommend that you visit a surgical outpatient clinic for furthe...