lipoma removal Huntsville AL / sebaceous cyst removal Huntsville AL
LIPOMA AND SEBACEOUS CYST REMOVAL
Lipomas and sebaceous cysts are both common, usually harmless growths under the skin. Neither needs to be removed unless it's bothering you, but removal is a quick outpatient procedure when you want it gone. Dr. Mailapur removes both as a same-day office or outpatient procedure, with the tissue sent for pathology if there's any question about what it is.
What a Lipoma Is
A lipoma is a soft, slow-growing lump made of fat cells that sits just under the skin. They're usually painless, movable when you press on them, and most often appear on the shoulders, back, arms, or thighs. Lipomas are common and almost always benign, but they don't go away on their own.
What a Sebaceous Cyst Is
A sebaceous cyst forms when an oil gland or hair follicle becomes blocked, causing a small sac to develop under the skin. They're usually firmer than a lipoma and can occasionally become red, tender, or infected if irritated. Like lipomas, sebaceous cysts are generally harmless but won't resolve without treatment.
When to Have One Removed
Neither a lipoma nor a sebaceous cyst needs to be removed just because it's there. Many patients choose removal because the growth is uncomfortable, catches on clothing, is in a visible spot, or is something they'd rather not have. Removal also becomes appropriate if a cyst becomes infected or if there's any uncertainty about what the growth actually is.
How Removal Works
Removing a lipoma or sebaceous cyst is a short outpatient procedure, often done under local anesthesia in the office. We make a small incision, remove the growth along with its capsule, and close the area with sutures. When there's any uncertainty about a growth, we send the tissue for pathology to confirm exactly what it is.
Recovery is minimal. Most patients are back to normal activity within a day or two, with some restriction on heavy activity near the incision site for a week or so while it heals.