How long do I have to wait till I can be active again after lipoma removal on lower thigh behind the knee bend? (photo)

Question

How long do I have to wait till I can be active again with working out or playing sports after a lipoma removal from the thigh right above the knee bend? I believe they said it was 5x5x3? and I'm a week from post-surgery.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question and photograph. I would recommend allowing at least 2-4 weeks to pass before resuming gym activities in order to allow the skin incision to heal further, avoiding possible separation or widening. Best to ask your surgeon for a specific timeline based on your recovery progress.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Lipomas are benign fatty tumors that occur under the skin and less commonly within the muscle. They are associated with mild discomfort and a lump underneath the skin. It is always best to talk to an expert plastic surgeon to determine whether the lipoma is possibly a cyst or a tumor or hernia. We would have to remove the lipoma to be sure that it is not something else and we usually do this by sending it to a pathologist for evaluation. If a lipoma is painful, then an exam is needed to make sure it is not compressing on a nerve or whether the diagnosis is different. Aftercare for a lipoma includes gentle compression and Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily on the wound.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear dgonzalez30,
you are still in early postoperative period and you should avoid activities until your incision heals. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.
It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

How long do I have to wait till I can be active again after lipoma removal on lower thigh behind the knee bend? (photo)

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How long do I have to wait till I can be active again after lipoma removal on lower thigh behind the knee bend? (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Lipoma Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.