Lipoma Removal in Seomyeon, Busan
Lipoma removal is minor surgery to cut out a lipoma, a soft, slow-growing, benign lump of fat under the skin (지방종). In Seomyeon, Busan, surgical clinics usually confirm a lipoma with examination and ultrasound, then remove it under local anesthesia in about 20–60 minutes as a walk-out procedure. Stitches typically come out after one to two weeks.
Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:
What is a lipoma?
A lipoma is a common, harmless growth of fat cells wrapped in a thin capsule. It typically feels soft and rubbery, moves slightly under the skin and grows slowly over months or years. Lipomas are found most often on the back, shoulders, neck, arms and thighs. Some people have several. They are not cancer and rarely cause problems other than appearance or pressure.
Who is it for?
Removal is optional for small, painless lipomas, but people commonly choose surgery when a lipoma:
- Is growing or bothersome in appearance
- Causes discomfort from pressure on nerves or when lying on it
- Rubs against clothing, straps or a belt
- Has an uncertain diagnosis on ultrasound
A lump that is hard, fixed, rapidly growing, painful, deep below muscle or larger than about 5 cm should be imaged and assessed carefully, as rare soft-tissue tumours can resemble lipomas.
What happens at the clinic
- Examination: size, consistency and mobility of the lump.
- Ultrasound: confirms a fatty lesion and its depth.
- MRI if needed: for large, deep or unusual lumps.
- Procedure: local anesthetic is injected, a small incision is made over the lump, the lipoma is freed from surrounding tissue and removed whole where possible.
- Closure: layered stitches, sometimes a small drain for large cavities.
- Pathology: the tissue is sent to confirm the diagnosis.
Recovery and aftercare
Keep the dressing clean and dry as instructed. Mild pain and bruising settle within days. Avoid stretching the area or heavy exercise until stitches are out. The scar fades over months; silicone gel or sun protection can help it mature.
Risks and side effects
Possible complications include bleeding, haematoma, infection, seroma, a visible scar and, rarely, recurrence if part of the capsule remains. Larger incisions are sometimes necessary to remove the lipoma completely, which lowers recurrence.
Choosing a clinic for lipoma removal in Seomyeon
- Choose a surgeon who performs ultrasound before surgery to plan depth and size.
- Ask about incision length and how the scar will be placed along skin lines.
- Ask whether the tissue will be sent for pathology.
- For multiple lipomas, ask how many can safely be removed in one session.
- Clarify the stitch-removal visit and aftercare.
Quick access
Lipoma excision is usually a short visit, easy to fit into a day in the city. Seomyeon's surgical clinics are near the Line 1 and Line 2 interchange.
Key facts
- What it is: benign fatty tumour, soft and movable under the skin
- Diagnosis: exam and ultrasound; MRI for large or deep lumps
- Procedure time: about 20–60 minutes depending on size
- Anesthesia: local for most; sedation or general for large or deep lipomas
- Downtime: usually return to normal activity in 1–2 days
- Stitches: removed in about 7–14 days
- Pathology: removed tissue is usually examined
Frequently asked questions
Is a lipoma dangerous?
Lipomas are benign and almost never turn into cancer. However, a large, hard, fixed or rapidly growing lump should be checked, as rare tumours can look similar.
Can a lipoma be removed without surgery?
Small lipomas may be reduced by injections or liposuction, but these can leave part of the lipoma behind. Surgical excision is the most reliable way to remove it completely.
Will lipoma removal leave a scar?
Yes, there will be a scar roughly the length of the incision, but it usually fades over months. Surgeons place incisions along skin lines where possible.
Does lipoma removal hurt?
Local anesthetic numbs the area, so you feel pressure rather than pain. Mild soreness for a few days afterward is common.
Can a lipoma come back after removal?
Recurrence is uncommon when the whole lipoma and capsule are removed. New lipomas can develop elsewhere.
Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.