Lipomas are fatty lumps that grow under the skin. Although they are usually benign, they can be unsightly and can cause discomfort if they grow large enough to press on surrounding tissues. In some cases, lipomas may need to be removed. However, the removal of lipomas can leave scars. In this article, we will discuss lipoma removal scar treatments.
What is a lipoma removal scar?
A lipoma removal scar is a scar that is left behind after the removal of a lipoma. The size and appearance of the scar depend on several things, such as the size and location of the lipoma, the type of surgery used to remove it, and how well the person heals. Some scars may fade with time, but others may be more obvious and need to be treated.
Types of Lipoma Removal Scars
There are several types of lipoma removal scars, including:
- Linear scars: These are the most common type of scar and are typically straight or slightly curved. They result from the skin incision necessary to remove the lipoma.
- Circular scars: A punch biopsy tool that removes the lipoma leaves behind these rounded scars.
- Indented scars: When a large lipoma is taken out, the skin can sink in, leaving these scars.
- Keloid scars: Raised and discolored, these scars are the result of an overgrowth of scar tissue.
Treatments for lipoma removal scars
Topical scar treatments
Topical scar treatments are put on the scar itself and can help make it look less noticeable. Some common topical scar treatments include:
- Silicone gel sheets: These are adhesive sheets that are placed over the scar and can help to reduce its size and redness.
- Vitamin E oil: This oil is applied to the scar and can help to improve its texture and appearance.
- Onion extract: This extract is applied to the scar and can help to reduce its size and redness.
Laser Scar Removal treatment
Laser treatment can be used to reduce the appearance of lipoma removal scars. This treatment uses a laser to remove the top layers of the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of scars. Laser treatment may require several sessions to achieve the desired results.
Steroid injections
Steroid injections can be used to reduce the size and appearance of keloid scars. These injections are given directly into the scar and can help to flatten and soften it. Steroid injections may need to be repeated several times to achieve the desired results.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive process that uses a special tool to remove the top layers of skin. This can help reduce the appearance of scars and improve the texture of the skin. Microdermabrasion may require several sessions to achieve the desired results.
Surgical scar revision
In some cases, a laser scar removal may need to be fixed with surgery to make it look better. In this procedure, the scar tissue is removed and the skin is moved to make a new scar that is less noticeable. Surgical scar revision is usually done with local anaesthesia, and it may take a few weeks for the scar to heal.
Preventing lipoma removal scars
Even though it may not be possible to completely avoid scars after a lipoma is removed, some things can be done to make them less noticeable. These include:
- Following the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, including keeping the incision site clean and dry,
- avoiding things like heavy lifting or strenuous exercise that could put stress on the wound,
- as instructed by the surgeon, wearing compression clothing or bandages.
- Avoiding sun exposure to the incision site until it has fully healed
Conclusion
Lipomas can be ugly and painful, and in some cases, they may need to be cut out. Even though removing lipomas can leave scars, there are many ways to make them look less noticeable. Some of the most common ways to make lipoma removal scars less noticeable are laser treatment, steroid injections, microdermabrasion, and surgical scar revision.
It’s important to remember that the type of treatment suggested will depend on the person’s situation, such as the size and location of the lipoma, the type of scar, and how quickly the person heals. Talking to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon is important to figure out the best treatment plan for your needs.
In addition to these treatments, some steps can be taken to prevent lipoma removal scars from forming. People can reduce the chance of getting scars by doing what the surgeon tells them to do after surgery and not doing things that might put stress on the incision site.
It’s important to remember that lipoma removal scars are usually harmless and easy to treat, even if they look bad. If you want to get rid of a lipoma, you should talk to a doctor about the possible risks and benefits. This will help you decide if the procedure is right for you. With the right care and treatment, scars from lipoma removal can be kept to a minimum and people can enjoy smoother, clearer skin.
Need to speak to a private dermatologist? Contact us today on 0207 030 3370 for laser scar removal in London