Lipoma removal has left large indent in my arm. Normal? Is there anything to fix the large caved in area on my arm? (photo)

Question

I had lipoma surgery 3 weeks ago, and it has left a huge caved in area on my upper left arm. The incision is about an inch and a half. The lipoma was 6x5x4. It had some fluid build up and the used a needle to drain last week. It looked a million times worse. It is so caved in and looks horrible. Any help or suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated. Been in tears over this.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photographs and questions and I am sorry to hear of your contour irregularity and seroma formation after lipoma removal.  Due to your recent procedure and complication the tissues of your upper arm are likely swollen causing a more significant contour irregularity than what will be long-term.  I know waiting is difficult but allow your results at least 3 months time to mature.  If a significant irregularity remains, fat grafting can be performed into the area to help improve upon the results.  Hang in there!

David J. Wages, MD · Answer

During the acute healing after removal of lipoma one would expect to see a contour deformity.  Over time the body will remodel the tissues.  If one has a deformity after six months then further treatment may be performed.  I would recommend observation for my patients for at least 3-6 months.  Good luck.

Lipoma removal has left large indent in my arm. Normal? Is there anything to fix the large caved in area on my arm? (photo)

Answers (2)