If you’ve discovered a lipoma anywhere on your body, you may want to consider lipoma removal in Beverly Hills & Santa Monica at Brian Shafa Plastic Surgery.
What is a lipoma?
A lipoma is a type of growth consisting of fat cells that develop into a capsule just underneath the skin. These growths can appear nearly anywhere on the body, but they’re most commonly found under the arms or on the upper arms, neck, abdomen, or upper thighs. Although lipomas are typically benign, they can cause discomfort and severe introversion if ignored for a prolonged period. Plus, if a lipoma is located in a visible area of the body, it can be noticeable to other people and cause embarrassment.
What Causes Lipomas?
Although the specific causes of lipomas are still being studied, we do have a general idea of the risk factors associated with these growths. For one, if anyone in your family has developed one or more lipomas, you’ll likely be at increased risk of having one. Most commonly, lipomas occur in people between 40 and 60. Other known risk factors for lipomas include:
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Glucose intolerance
- Liver disease
When Should You Have a Lipoma Removed?
Because lipomas usually aren’t medically significant, many people will choose not to have them removed. So, when is it genuinely worth having a lipoma on your body removed? Lipoma removal in Beverly Hills & Santa Monica may be your best option if your lipoma is:
- Found to be cancerous
- Significantly impacting your appearance and/or self-confidence
- Growing quickly
- Affecting your movement
- Causing pain or discomfort
- Unable to be confirmed as a lipoma rather than another type of tumor
Benefits of Lipoma Removal
Lipoma removal can offer several significant benefits, including:
- Eliminates any visible lump caused by the lipoma
- Alleviates discomfort and pain
- Stops a lipoma before it can grow any larger
- Increased self-confidence
What Should I Expect During the Surgery?
If you have a lipoma that you’d like to be rid of, the first step will be to sit down for a consultation with Dr. Shafa. He will examine the growth in question and ask you about the symptoms you’ve experienced. He’ll then discuss your different options for lipoma removal with you and help you determine which treatment makes the most sense. If you decide to proceed, Dr. Shafa will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan for removing your lipoma.
If you surgically remove your lipoma, the procedure will be performed, outpatient. Typically, the procedure requires local anesthesia with IV sedation, but general anesthesia may be needed in the case of deeper lipomas. First, Dr. Shafa will make the necessary incision in the treatment area. He will then carefully excise the lipoma, entirely removing it from your body. Finally, he will close the incision with stitches and bandage the area. Typically, lipoma removal surgery takes around an hour to complete, and you can leave shortly after the procedure is finished.
Am I a Candidate for Lipoma Removal?
Adults who have developed one or more lipomas could be good candidates for lipoma removal. To be an ideal candidate for lipoma removal surgery, you should:
- Be in generally good physical health
- Have one or more lipomas that you’d like to have removed
- Not be currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have reasonable expectations for the procedure and recovery
Why Choose Dr. Shafa for Your Lipoma Removal?
When you choose Brian Shafa Plastic Surgery for your lipoma removal in Beverly Hills & Santa Monica, you’ll be under the expert care of Dr. Shafa and his dedicated team. We will discuss the treatment thoroughly and ensure you understand all your options for treating your lipoma. Throughout the process, your experience will be as comfortable and stress-free as possible, and Dr. Shafa will approach your procedure with precision and attention to detail. We’ll take care of your lipoma to help you restore your peace of mind, comfort, and self-confidence. Contact our office today if you’d like to schedule a consultation.
