Can you surgically remove a lipoma on the buttocks that has cellular atrophy?

Question

For many years I have had a pea size lipoma just above my tailbone. As I have aged and the skin has changed, it seems the lipoma has atrophied. It is harder to find, deeper and smaller. It is also quite irritating. Would it be a good idea to have it removed or leave it alone.

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

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear dfastone,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. In case it bothers you, then it can probably be removed. 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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I would consider doing liposuction with heating to give the back a better look and just shrink it down. this will leave less of a scar. Best, Dr. Emer.

Can you surgically remove a lipoma on the buttocks that has cellular atrophy?

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Can you surgically remove a lipoma on the buttocks that has cellular atrophy?

Answers (3)

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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.