Is drainage absolutely necessary for a 10cm lipoma removal? How long can one expect the drainage to take place post surgery?

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Each surgeon will have their own respective rationale for and against the use of a drain but the back is an area that is predisposed to fluid accumulation, and with the size of your apparent lipoma I see little additional inconvenience for drain placement over a few days time.  It avoids the need for possible aspiration for fluid collections.

Large lipoma removal of the lower back is prone to seroma formation.It is obvious that your Dr has tried to protect you suggesting a small drainage the time of wound closure.Seroma formation and spontaneous drainage from the wound is not a serious complication but it will forced you to go back and forth to your Dr's office to manage it.So select your Dr you wish to remove your lipoma trust him and follow his instructions.

Hi pmahajan93,There is no right or wrong answer for this situation and a lot depends on your doctors personal experience with similar situations. A 10 cm lipoma is a pretty good size that will leave a pocket after removal that can fill with fluid. This may lead to complications such as incision separation, infection, or other problems. It is reasonable to have a drain for a few days to minimize this but I could just as easily support the idea of no drain. I would stick with the doctor who has seen your lipoma, and who you have the most confidence in.Best of luckDr. Pollack