Why You Should Never Remove a Lipoma Yourself
A lipoma is a non-cancerous lump made up of fatty tissue that grows slowly under the skin. While these soft, movable lumps are usually harmless, some people are tempted to remove them on their own at home. Doing so, however, can be dangerous and may lead to serious complications.
What Makes Lipomas Harmless
Lipomas are generally painless, slow-growing, and non-invasive. They don’t spread to other parts of the body, and many people live with them without any issues. Removal is usually only recommended if the lipoma:
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Causes discomfort or pain
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Grows quickly
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Becomes noticeable or bothersome in appearance
The Dangers of Self-Removal
1. Risk of Infection
Cutting into the skin without sterile tools can introduce bacteria, leading to infection, swelling, and pus buildup.
2. Excessive Bleeding
Lipomas are surrounded by small blood vessels. Without proper medical training, you may damage these vessels and cause uncontrolled bleeding.
3. Nerve Damage
Some lipomas develop near nerves. Removing them improperly could lead to pain, numbness, or long-term damage.
4. Incomplete Removal
If any fatty tissue is left behind, the lipoma can regrow. Doctors remove the lump along with its capsule to prevent recurrence.
5. Scarring
Home removal often leaves larger, more noticeable scars than a medical procedure.
Safe Ways to Remove a Lipoma
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Consult a Doctor
A healthcare provider can confirm it’s a lipoma and rule out other conditions like cysts or tumors. -
Minor Surgical Procedure
Performed under local anesthesia, a doctor makes a small incision, removes the lump completely, and closes the wound with minimal scarring. -
Liposuction Technique
In some cases, liposuction can remove the fatty tissue with even smaller incisions, though it may not remove the capsule.
When to See a Doctor Immediately
Seek medical help if the lump:
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Grows rapidly
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Becomes painful
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Feels hard or fixed in place
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Shows redness, warmth, or discharge
Conclusion
While a lipoma may seem simple to remove, attempting it yourself can lead to infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and scarring. The safest choice is to have it examined and, if needed, removed by a medical professional. This ensures proper care, complete removal, and faster healing.
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