Can you give suggestions about lipoma to my right temple area? (Photo)

Question

Hi guys! I have a lipoma on my right temple area. Noticed it a couple years ago. I have seen a doctor and got it examined, but decided not to have surgery at the time because the doctor said it can cause damage to my facial nerve. I believe it’s growing in size and I’m now feeling pressure in my right ear. I will be making another appointment tomorrow just to see if there’s other options that won’t lead to nerve damage. Does anyone have any expert with this or can give any suggestions?

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It would be important to determine what is causing the mass that you see on the side of your face.  While it is possible that it could be a lipoma, it is also possible it could be something else.  You may need an imaging study and/or a needle biopsy of the mass to try and determine what it is and if other structures may be involved.  Once these questions are answered, options for possible removal could be determined.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear  Kflowers,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photograph.  I would recommend seeing either an ENT or plastic surgeon in consultation for your soft tissue mass.  The most important first step is obtaining a definite diagnosis so that the appropriate treatment can be recommended to you.  If indeed a lipoma this can often be safely removed in a surgeon's office, while if say a salivary tumor, a more formal surgery will be required. Hope this helps.

Can you give suggestions about lipoma to my right temple area? (Photo)

Answers (3)