At Northmead Medical Centre, we provide assessment and removal of lipomas, sebaceous (epidermoid) cysts and other benign skin and soft tissue lumps. Many procedures can be safely performed by our experienced GPs under local anaesthetic in our fully equipped treatment room, allowing you to return home the same day.

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Most skin and soft tissue lumps are benign (non-cancerous). However, any new, enlarging or symptomatic lump should be assessed by a doctor to determine the most appropriate management. Depending on the size, location and clinical features, your GP may recommend observation, removal in the clinic, further investigations or referral to a specialist.

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What Is a Lipoma?

A lipoma is a benign fatty lump that develops beneath the skin. Lipomas are usually soft, slow-growing and painless, although some may become uncomfortable or interfere with movement depending on their size or location.

 

Other common benign lumps include sebaceous (epidermoid) cysts, fibromas and other superficial soft tissue lesions.

Although most small lumps are harmless, it is important to have any new or changing lump examined by a doctor to exclude more serious conditions.

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Common Symptoms

Many small lumps cause no symptoms and are discovered accidentally. Others may cause:

• A soft or firm lump beneath the skin

• Gradual increase in size

• Pain or tenderness

• Discomfort when pressure is applied

• Restricted movement if located near a joint

• Redness or infection (particularly with cysts)

• Cosmetic concerns

If a lump grows rapidly, becomes increasingly painful, bleeds, ulcerates or changes significantly in appearance, prompt medical assessment is recommended.

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Conditions We Commonly Treat

Our doctors commonly assess and treat:

• Lipomas (fatty lumps)

• Sebaceous (epidermoid) cysts

• Benign skin and soft tissue lumps

• Small subcutaneous masses suitable for removal in general practice

Some larger or more complex lesions may require referral to a specialist surgeon.

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type, size, location and symptoms of the lump. Options may include:

Observation

Small, painless benign lumps that are not causing problems may simply be monitored.

Medical Treatment

If the lump is inflamed or infected, medication such as antibiotics may be required before considering surgery.

Incision and Drainage

Certain infected cysts or abscesses may require drainage rather than complete excision.

Surgical Excision

For symptomatic, enlarging or cosmetically concerning lumps, surgical excision may be recommended. Removal also allows the tissue to be examined under a microscope if clinically indicated.

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Lipoma & Lump Removal Procedure

Most procedures are performed in our treatment room under local anaesthetic. The procedure generally involves:

• Examination and marking of the lump.

• Cleaning the skin with an antiseptic solution.

• Administration of local anaesthetic.

• Careful removal of the lump through a small incision.

• Closure of the wound with sutures where required.

• Application of a protective dressing.

Depending on the size and location of the lump, the procedure usually takes 20 to 60 minutes.

Where clinically appropriate, the removed tissue may be sent for histopathological examination to confirm the diagnosis.

 

Benefits of Excision

• Removal of a benign lump may:

• Relieve pain or discomfort

• Prevent recurrent inflammation or infection

• Improve appearance where appropriate

• Allow laboratory confirmation of the diagnosis

• Reduce anxiety about the nature of the lump

• Prevent further enlargement of the lesion

 

Recovery & Aftercare

Following your procedure, your doctor will provide detailed wound care instructions. Patients are generally advised to:

• Keep the wound clean and dry

• Leave the dressing in place as advised

• Avoid strenuous activity until the wound has healed

• Return for dressing changes or suture removal if required

• Watch for increasing redness, swelling, discharge or fever, which may indicate infection

Most patients return to their normal daily activities within a few days, although healing time varies depending on the size and location of the excision.

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Possible Risks

Minor surgery is generally very safe; however, as with any surgical procedure, potential risks include:

• Bleeding

• Bruising

• Infection

• Wound separation

• Scarring

• Temporary numbness

• Recurrence of the lump in some cases

Your doctor will discuss the benefits, risks and expected outcomes before the procedure.