I had a lipoma removed 5 weeks ago and it's now double the size?

Question

I had a lipoma removed 5 weeks Ago on my lower leg (just above my ankle) and its now double the size and feels tender to touch? And tight. Is this normal? And will the swelling go down?

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

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have a fluid collection in the area of your surgery. This can be either fluid (seroma) or blood (hematoma). This swelling usually resolves on its own with time, but if there is rapid growth or alot of discomfort then sometimes it needs to be drained out with a needle. You should schedule a follow up appointment with your surgeon who will determine if any further treatment is necessary. Good luck!

Pablo Garcia, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

lipomas do not appear as fast again. you probably have the inflamed area, the presence of what we call liquid blood or hematoma or seroma

I had a lipoma removed 5 weeks ago and it's now double the size?

Answers (3)

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