Redness & Numbness Following Removal of Lipoma?

Question

I had a lipoma removed from the base of my neck (right-hand side along collar bone) on Wednesday. I have numbness from my clavical down to the top of my bicep in my right arm. This area is now going red, very noticeable against my skin colour. The area underneath the wound has become hard and sore to touch. Is this to be expected?

Warren Schutte, MD · Answer

Every case is different and it is hard to know exactly what is going on with your case. It is important to remember all incisions are the most red and inflamed at 3 weeks post operation. Always watch for redness that is spreading away from the incision as this may be a sign of infection. if you see this type of reddening (spreading from the incision) follow up with your surgeon right away for evaluation. There will always be a small area of residual numbness around incisions. If a sensory branch nerves was severed at the time of surgery, this numb area may be larger, but should improve with time.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It's difficult to know if there is any problem with your recovery, after lipoma removal at the base of your neck, without examining you. Your description does not sound typical so I would definitely contact your surgeon to let him or her know what is going on. It's possible you may need to be seen to determine what is occurring.

Redness & Numbness Following Removal of Lipoma?

Answers (2)