Can I Combine Lipoma Removal Via Liposuction with Cosmetic Lipo?

Question

I have lipomas on my back and in other areas. Diameter is about 1-2 cm (1/2 to 3/4 inch or so). I have about 8 in my back, below my rib cage and above the waistline. I have had a tangerine-sized one removed from my neck, another from my arm, both benign. Can my lipomas be removed via liposuction, or would this just spread the problem around? Can I combine removing the lipomas with a cosmetic lipo to get rid of some belly and waist fat? I am 5'7" tall, 175 pounds. I exercise and I'm reasonably fit. Thanks!

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

If the diagnosis is clearly a lipoma, then you can have cosmetic liposuction at the same time.  However, you are fooling no one if you think the insurance coverage for the lipoma excision is also going to cover your cosmetic liposuction.  The insurance will only cover the OR and anesthesia time for the actual lipoma removal.  Good luck.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Many doctors use liposuction for lipoma removal without a concern of "spreading them around" but I rather fully excise them to decrease the chance of them regrowing. The liposuction may debulk but not remove all of the lipoma cells and the growth(s) may regrow in the subsequent years.

Scott Tucker, MD · Answer

As mentioned by a previous doctor lipomas typically come out in continuity, suctioning them may break them up and increase the chance of recurrence.  The other potential issue is separating what is cosmetic and reconstructive if you have this done in the hospital.  Your insurance will probably pay to remove the lipomas, but not the cosmetic portion.
Take care,
Dr T

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Yes, you can combine cosmetic liposuction with lipoma removal. However, you can have a recurrence of the lipoma if it is not totally removed. Lipomas can be localized (more or less in a ball) or they may have branches that cannot be felt. Your surgeon can advise you.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

Liposuction has been used to remove lipomas. However, this generally violates the basic principles of tumor removal because there is no way that liposuction will completely remove the lipoma and there is a higher risk of recurrence. Despite this it remains a popular option.

Can I Combine Lipoma Removal Via Liposuction with Cosmetic Lipo?

Answers (9)

Answer: Lipoma removal can be combined with liposuction,

Answer: Lipoma removal can be combined with liposuction,

Answer: Lipoma removal with liposuction.

Answer: Lipoma removal with liposuction.

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Everything you need to know about Lipoma Removal

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Can I Combine Lipoma Removal Via Liposuction with Cosmetic Lipo?

Answers (9)

Answer: Lipoma removal can be combined with liposuction,

Answer: Lipoma removal can be combined with liposuction,

Answer: Lipoma removal with liposuction.

Answer: Lipoma removal with liposuction.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lipoma Removal

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