Lipoma removal (fatty lumps)
A lipoma is a benign collection of fat cells beneath the skin. We remove lipomas surgically under local anaesthesia when they bother you, are growing, or for cosmetic reasons.
What is a lipoma?
A lipoma is a soft, mobile lump under the skin made of mature fat cells. They are benign in more than 99% of cases and grow slowly over years. Most common on the back, shoulders, arms and thighs.
When should it be removed?
- Rapid growth or new pain.
- Size larger than 5 cm.
- Bothersome (pressing on a nerve, rubbing against clothing).
- Diagnostic uncertainty (to exclude liposarcoma).
- Cosmetic reasons.
How is the procedure done?
Performed under local anaesthesia through a small incision over the lump. The lipoma is removed in full together with its capsule to minimise the risk of recurrence. The wound is closed with sutures that are removed after 10–14 days. The procedure takes 20–45 minutes depending on size.
After the procedure
- You can go home immediately.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for a week.
- You can shower after 48 hours.
- Tissue is sent for histology to confirm the diagnosis.
Complications
Rare and include: bleeding, infection, haematoma, scar, or recurrence (< 5%). We review all risks with you before the procedure.
How to book
Online booking is not available. Call the clinic or ask your GP for a referral.
With a referral from your GP, treatment is free under the Danish public health insurance.
Call the clinic
+45 39 64 01 25
Phone hours
Phone hours: Mon–Thu 09:00–12:00
Address
Hans Edvard Teglers Vej 9, 1st floor · 2920 Charlottenlund
Frequently asked questions
What is a lipoma?+
A lipoma is a soft, mobile lump under the skin made of mature fat cells. It is benign in more than 99% of cases and grows slowly. Most common on the back, shoulders, arms and thighs.
When should a lipoma be removed?+
A lipoma should be removed in case of rapid growth, new pain, size larger than 5 cm, diagnostic uncertainty (to rule out liposarcoma), or if it is mechanically or cosmetically bothersome.
How is the removal performed?+
Under local anaesthesia through a small incision over the lump. The lipoma is removed in full together with its capsule to reduce the risk of recurrence. It takes 20–45 minutes depending on size.
When can I be active again?+
You can go home immediately. Avoid heavy physical exercise for about a week. You may shower after 48 hours. Sutures are removed after 10–14 days.
Can the lipoma come back?+
When the capsule is removed in full, recurrence is below 5%. New lipomas may, however, develop elsewhere – particularly with a hereditary disposition (familial lipomatosis).