Lipoma on Xiphoid Process - Is there an increased risk for removal?

Question

I have a diagnosed Lipoma over my Xiphoid process. It has doubled in size in the past year or so. From what I can feel.. my guess is it's about 3.5cm x 3.5 cm and attached just under my right rib cage. I want it removed because it sticks out, I usually don't wear a bra d/t it putting pressure on my chest/stomach & it hurts when I stretch certain ways. I am wondering if there is increased risk of removal & pain/recovery due to the location? Would a General surgeon be a good choice? Thank you!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Because the lipoma is likely found above your xiphoid process and stomach musculature there is no increased risk to surgical removal of the lipoma.  Because of the tendency towards poor scarring in the area I would advocate seeing a plastic surgeon in consultation for removal.  Hope this helps.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Careful excision is necessary because there are terminal branches of the internal mammary arteries that can bleed torrentially. A thoracic surgeon would be the specialist for this or a good general surgeon or plastic surgeon.H Karamanoukian MD FACSCV Surgeon Board Certified

Leslie Memsic, MD, FACS · Answer

I am sorry for your xyphoid mass. I recommend one remove any mass that grow or becomes uncomfortable.. Most soft tissue masses are benign lipomas (fatty tumors). Any general or plastic surgeon should be able to remove your mass with minimal scarring. The smaller the mass is, the easier it is to remove so I would not delay much longer to consult a specialist. Good luck and take care.

Lipoma on Xiphoid Process - Is there an increased risk for removal?

Answers (3)