Lipomas: When to Worry About Pain and Surgery

Inquire about issues related to fat retention?

The physician has a lipoma on the left posterior thigh, which was previously evaluated.
The doctor indicated that as long as there are no discomforting symptoms, it is acceptable to leave it as is.
Recently, the lipoma has been causing pain when pressed or when sitting on it, and it measures approximately 6.7 centimeters in diameter.
Could you please advise if this condition could turn malignant? What are the signs of malignancy? If surgical treatment is required, how long would the hospitalization typically be before returning to normal work? What is the estimated cost of the surgery? Thank you!

Xiao Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/08/29

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Hello, Xiao Li.
1.
Recently, the lipoma has been causing pain when pressed or when sitting on it.
It is approximately 6.7 centimeters in diameter.
I suggest considering surgical removal.
2.
Will this condition turn malignant? What are the signs of malignancy? It is very rare for someone to discover malignant cells after surgery, but it is not impossible.
Signs of malignancy may include changes in color and hardness.
3.
If surgical treatment is performed, how long will hospitalization be before I can return to normal work? Perhaps a minor outpatient procedure could resolve it, and hospitalization might only be for one or two days, but a physical examination of your tumor is necessary to make that determination.
4.
What is the estimated cost of the surgery? With health insurance, the hospitalization cost would require a ten percent out-of-pocket expense, which might be around one to two thousand NTD.
Outpatient procedures typically do not require any out-of-pocket expense.
Thank you for your message!
Best regards,
Chen Si-Rong

Reply Date: 2012/08/29

More Info

When it comes to lipomas, it's important to understand that these benign tumors are composed of fatty tissue and are generally harmless. However, your recent experience of pain in the area of the lipoma, especially when pressed or sitting, raises some valid concerns. Let's break down your questions regarding the potential for malignancy, symptoms to watch for, surgical options, and recovery.

Understanding Lipomas and Malignancy
Firstly, lipomas are typically not cancerous. They are soft, movable lumps under the skin that usually do not cause pain. However, if you start experiencing pain, especially if it is new or worsening, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. While the vast majority of lipomas remain benign, there are rare instances where a lipoma can be confused with or develop into a more serious condition, such as a liposarcoma, which is a malignant tumor of fatty tissue.

Signs of Concern:
- Rapid growth of the lump
- Hardness or firmness of the lump
- Pain that is persistent and not related to pressure
- Changes in the skin over the lipoma, such as redness or warmth
- Any new symptoms that arise, such as systemic symptoms (fever, weight loss)
If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to seek further evaluation, which may include imaging studies like an ultrasound or MRI, and possibly a biopsy to rule out malignancy.

Surgical Considerations
If your healthcare provider recommends surgery, it is typically done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you would not need to stay in the hospital overnight. The surgery involves local anesthesia, and the lipoma is excised through a small incision. The procedure is usually quick, often taking less than an hour, depending on the size and location of the lipoma.

Recovery Time:
Post-surgery, most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, although complete healing of the incision may take a week or more. You should be able to resume light work shortly after the procedure, but if your job involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, it may be advisable to wait a bit longer. Always follow your surgeon's specific recommendations regarding activity levels post-surgery.

Cost of Surgery
The cost of lipoma removal can vary widely based on several factors, including the location of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, and whether you have insurance coverage. On average, the cost can range from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. It's best to check with your healthcare provider and insurance company for a more accurate estimate based on your specific situation.

Conclusion
In summary, while lipomas are generally benign, any changes in size, shape, or pain should prompt further evaluation. Surgical removal is a common and effective treatment, with a relatively quick recovery time. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any concerns you may have regarding your lipoma or any associated symptoms. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, so don't hesitate to seek further evaluation if needed.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Lipomas: Causes, Concerns, and Surgical Timing

About a year ago, I suddenly noticed a small lump on my left thigh. At that time, it was painless and itch-free, so I didn't see a doctor. However, in early February of this year, I noticed that it seemed to have grown significantly larger than last year, with a noticeable b...

Dr. Yang Youhua reply Oncology
Most lipomas are benign. They can be surgically removed if they cause pain due to pressure symptoms or affect appearance. Your overall health condition seems to be quite good, so there is no need for excessive worry.

Understanding Painful Lipomas: When to Seek Surgical Advice

You can feel a lump about one centimeter in size on the side of your waist. It moves slightly when pressed, and applying pressure causes pain. However, it has been present for over five years without causing issues until recently, when you started experiencing spontaneous sharp p...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! It is recommended to undergo a general surgical excision. Wishing you safety! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Understanding Lipomas: When to Seek Treatment and Surgical Options

Hello Doctor, I have a sebaceous cyst on one side of my buttocks, approximately four centimeters in size (I'm not sure if that's considered large; it seems to have grown since I first noticed it several years ago). It usually doesn't hurt (I don't feel it), an...

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
1. If a tumor persists or enlarges after two weeks, surgical treatment should be considered. 2. Whether to perform drainage or excision surgery should be determined through an outpatient consultation for a safer assessment. 3. Generally, local anesthesia is used in plastic su...

Understanding Lipomas: When to Worry About Pain and New Growths

There is a pre-existing lipoma on the left posterior side of the lower back, approximately 2 cm in diameter, which has been present for over a decade. It causes slight pain when compressed, but its size has remained unchanged, and its color is normal skin tone. In the past six mo...

Dr. Cai Yaozhou reply Internal Medicine
Lipomas are quite common benign tumors located in the subcutaneous tissue, composed of fat. Typically, lipomas are surrounded by a thin fibrous capsule that separates them from the surrounding normal tissue. However, sometimes this fibrous layer may be absent, making it difficult...