What is the removal of fatty deposits and lumps
Fatty tissue removal is a surgical procedure that removes fatty deposits and growths under the skin. These can be larger collections of fatty tissue on the back, neck or shoulders, several smaller lumps, or growths that contain connective tissue or blood vessels besides fat, such as a fibrolipoma or an angiolipoma.
These changes are most often benign. Patients have them removed because of pressure, discomfort or visibility, or because they get in the way of clothing and sleep.
For a single lipoma, a soft movable lump under the skin, we have a separate page, Lipoma removal. This page covers broader procedures and changes that need a different plan.
Before the procedure the surgeon examines the change, assesses its size, depth and position, and explains what to expect. We plan for the specific change and the specific patient.
When removal of fatty deposits is indicated
Not every fatty deposit or growth needs to be removed. Small changes that stay the same can be monitored. Removal makes sense when the change bothers you, grows, or when its nature needs to be checked.
At the examination we go through how much the change bothers you, whether it is changing and where it is. Based on that we decide together whether the procedure is justified.
- A larger fatty deposit on the back, neck or shoulders that presses or bothers you
- Several lumps under the skin in the same area
- A growth that is getting bigger or changing size
- Pain or tenderness at the site of the change
- A change exposed to friction from clothing, a belt or a bag strap
- A change that disturbs sleeping or sitting
- Uncertainty about the nature of the change and the need to examine the tissue
How fatty deposits are removed
Smaller changes are removed under local anesthesia. Only the area around the change is numbed, and you stay awake and feel no pain.
The surgeon makes an incision over the change, separates it from the surrounding tissue and removes it in one piece. For larger or deeper deposits we adapt the incision, the approach and the type of anesthesia to the size of the change.
The removed tissue is usually sent for histopathology to confirm that the change is benign. Finally the wound is stitched so that the scar is as inconspicuous as possible.
Preparation
Preparation for fatty tissue removal is, as a rule, simple, but it is important that we go through a few steps before the procedure. At the examination we assess the size and position of the change and, if needed, request additional diagnostics if we want a better view of what lies beneath the skin.
An open conversation at the consultation is key. Tell us everything that could affect the procedure and wound healing, so we can plan the operation safely and calmly.
- Tell the doctor which medications you take, especially blood thinners
- Report allergies, chronic illnesses and earlier problems with wound healing
- Tell us whether you have had similar changes before and whether they came back
- On the day of the procedure wear comfortable clothing that does not press on the operation site
- Follow the instructions you receive at the consultation
- Plan for an easier day after the procedure, without demanding obligations
The procedure, anesthesia and duration
Removing a smaller change under local anesthesia is a short procedure. You may feel light pressure during it, but no pain.
The duration depends on the size, number and depth of the changes. Larger deposits on the back and neck take more time and a more demanding approach.
After the procedure the area is dressed and you usually go home soon. You receive instructions on wound care and on when to come for a check-up and stitch removal.
Recovery
Recovery after fatty tissue removal is usually quick and calm. In the first days it is normal to feel mild tenderness, tightness or slight swelling around the wound, which gradually subsides. For most people daily activities resume very quickly, with reasonable caution toward the operation site.
For the wound to heal well and the scar to be as tidy as possible, it is important to follow the care instructions. Avoiding strain on the operation area and tidy dressing changes make a difference in the final result.
- Keep the wound dry and clean according to the instructions you receive
- Avoid straining and stretching the area around the wound in the first days
- Do not remove the dressing yourself before the agreed time
- Come for the follow-up and suture removal when you are told
- Report increased swelling, redness, discharge from the wound or fever
- Protect the scar from the sun until it has fully matured
Possible risks
Fatty tissue removal is one of the well-tolerated procedures, but like any operation it carries certain risks that we discuss openly. A careful technique and tidy wound care serve to reduce the possibility of complications to the lowest possible level.
Most possible discomforts are mild and transient. If you notice any of the signs listed, contact us so we can respond in time.
- Minor bleeding or a collection of fluid at the procedure site
- Infection of the surgical wound
- A scar that in some people is more pronounced
- Temporary numbness or tenderness around the wound
- The possibility that the change comes back over time if it was not removed completely
- Swelling and tenderness of the area in the first days
Why Medical Time
At the Medical Time center in Belgrade we remove fatty tissue carefully, with tidy wound care and attention paid to the appearance of the scar. We believe that even a seemingly simple procedure deserves a clear conversation, precise work and calm monitoring after the operation.
- An experienced surgical team and a careful excision technique
- Examination and assessment of the change before every procedure
- The option to send the tissue for histopathological examination for reassurance
- Attention paid to making the scar as inconspicuous as possible
- Clear instructions for wound care and follow-up
- Pleasant conditions at the center in Belgrade
Price of removing fatty deposits
Removing a smaller fatty deposit or growth costs 18,000 RSD, and a larger or deeper one 36,000 RSD.
We give the final estimate after the examination, when we see the size, depth and number of changes.
- Removal of a smaller fatty deposit or growth
- Removal of a larger or deeper deposit
- Consultation and examination of the change
- Histopathological examination of the removed tissue
For an individual estimate and an appointment, call 011 4036 099.
Frequently asked questions
Fatty deposits and growths under the skin are most often benign. We remove them when they bother you, grow, or when their nature needs to be checked. We send the removed tissue for histopathology.
The procedure is most often performed under local anesthesia, so only the area around the growth is numbed and you feel no pain during the operation. After the procedure mild tenderness is possible, which is easily eased and subsides quickly.
Every incision leaves a trace, but we work so that the scar is as inconspicuous as possible. Wound care, avoiding strain and protecting the scar from the sun while it matures help the final result be as tidy as possible.
When the change is removed completely, the chance of it returning in the same place is lower. Some people develop similar changes in other places, which is not a result of the previous procedure.
Recovery is usually quick. Most patients return to daily activities very soon, with reasonable caution toward the operation site and following the wound care instructions.
No. Small changes that stay the same can be monitored. We recommend removal when the change grows, hurts, bothers you cosmetically or when its nature is uncertain.
That depends on the size and position of the change and on the nature of your work. With smaller procedures the return to obligations is usually quick, and we give you specific advice at the follow-up based on how the wound is healing.
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