What Questions Should I Ask a Surgeon About Removing a 9 Cm Lipoma from the Back of my Neck?

I've had the lipoma for over five years and it has grown 4 cm in 15 months. I'd like to have it removed primarily for cosmetic reasons. I'll be seeing a plastic surgeon soon for a consult. I want to ask the Dr. good questions, but am not sure what to ask. Would greatly appreciate advice. Also, should I be concerned about having the lipoma removed, given it's location?

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by K'Mo

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HOW BIG INCISION? byVillar

Ask him how big is the incision and if he can remove it through a stab wound incision using the technique in the attached video. Best wishes. Knowledge is power. Luis F. Villar MD FACS see video

Large Lipoma Growing on the Back of My Neck, Increasing in Size.

A 9 cm lipoma is quite large. There are reports of "giant" lipomas, starting at 10 cm and going up to 19 cm. Your lipoma has the typical history of slow growth, and there is no mention of pain or history of trauma. It would be good to confirm that the lipoma is growing above the fascia, that is, that it is entirely subcutaneous, without any growth between muscle planes. This can usually be determined with an MRI. Removal plan is up to the judgement of the surgeon and his or... more

Lipoma Questions

Ask him to do it in a hospital, while you are under general anesthesia. This is for your comfort and safety.

Questions to Ask before Excision of Lipoma?

Thank you for the question. Generally speaking, any question that helps you feel more comfortable with the planned procedure and helps alleviate anxiety should be asked. There is no such thing as a bad question. I would suggest that you ask questions such as: what is the plastic surgeon's experience level with these types of procedures in this location, where they planned incision would be, what are the potential risk/complications associated with the... more