General plastic surgery · Melbourne
Lipoma and skin lesion removal in Melbourne
Lipomas, cysts, moles and other skin lesions may be assessed when they cause symptoms, change or create a concern. Dr Brian Yue offers assessment for removal of lipomas and minor skin lesions. Assessment comes before deciding whether removal is needed.
Consultation and suitability
Not every lump should be presumed benign. Its history, growth, symptoms and examination guide whether observation, imaging, biopsy, excision or another referral is appropriate. Bring previous pathology or imaging reports if you have them.
An individual consultation considers your concerns, medical history, previous treatment and the trade-offs of surgery. Bring relevant reports and a list of medicines and supplements. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice from your treating team.
Options and the operation
A lipoma is a lump of fatty tissue beneath the skin. Excision removes the lump through an incision. Skin-lesion removal depends on the lesion and its site; the wound is often closed with stitches. Treatment may involve local anaesthesia for many minor procedures, with rooms or day-surgery arrangements according to the case.
Recovery and return to activity
Wound care and the timing of stitch removal depend on the site and closure. Swelling, bruising or discomfort may occur. Work involving tension, friction or contamination around the wound may require additional time away or modified duties.
Your return to work, driving and exercise depends on the extent of treatment, the demands of your activities and how healing progresses. Follow the instructions given for your own operation. Individual suitability, recovery and outcomes vary.
Scars, risks and limitations
Excision leaves a permanent scar, which may be longer than the visible lesion. A more complex closure may be needed in some areas. Pathology results can change the diagnosis or indicate further treatment.
Possible problems include bleeding, infection, altered sensation, delayed healing, a noticeable scar and incomplete removal or recurrence. The risks depend on the lesion’s depth and relationship to surrounding structures. Discuss how and when pathology results will be communicated.
This is an overview rather than a complete consent discussion. Surgery cannot promise a particular appearance or complete symmetry, and further treatment may sometimes be needed.
Frequently asked questions
Does every lipoma need removal?
No. The diagnosis, symptoms and reasons for considering treatment should guide the decision.
What if a lesion looks suspicious?
It needs appropriate assessment and a diagnostic plan. It should not simply be treated as a cosmetic blemish.
Related procedures
Your next step
A consultation with Dr Yue allows you to discuss your concerns, the available options and whether treatment is appropriate for you.
Consultations in Essendon and Bundoora, Melbourne.
Book a consultationDr Brian Yue
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
FRACS MBBS BMedSci DipAnat