Lipoma Attacks the Same Area Now for the 4th Time?

Lipomas larger than 5 cm are concerning as they are likley to degenerate into cancerous lesions (like liposarcoma, etc). Also, it is interesting and concerning that it has recurred and is 8,.4 cm, all the more reason to get complete excision. It is over a rib and although you don't specfy which rib, it is best to get a thoracic surgeon involved during the resection in case there needs to be need for wide excision and reconstruction with mesh, cyanoacrylate 'sandwich' and/or localized muscle... more

I don't think you mentioned the removal technique, hopefully is wasn't with liposuction as this would be inappropriate. If it were done open, then some must have been left over for there to be a recurrence. As suggested an MRI and a visit to a very experienced plastic surgeon who is also a Board Certified general surgeon would be good or visit a general surgeon or surgical oncologist who removes tumors regularly who is the top in your area. This might be something... more

A lipoma which has recurred after three prior excision attempts draws concern. The fact that the lipoma is becoming increasingly painful should push you to a resolution of the problem. I would recommend an MRI to determine the extent of the lipoma. Also, it might be a good idea for a pathologist to review the slides to be sure this is a simple lipoma. Rather than a simple lipoma, this could possibly be a deep atypical lipoma or even a well differentiated liposarcoma... more