Lipomas and Soft-Tissue Masses
What it is
A lipoma is a common, usually benign lump made up of fat that sits beneath the skin. Lipomas are often soft, mobile and slow-growing.
Not every soft-tissue lump is a lipoma. Other benign and, less commonly, more serious conditions can feel similar, which is why lumps are assessed rather than assumed.
Common reasons to seek assessment
- A new lump has appeared, or an existing one is growing
- The lump is uncomfortable, tender, or presses on surrounding tissue
- It restricts movement or is caught by clothing or a waistband
- The lump feels firm, fixed, or is changing
- You would like a clear answer about what the lump is
How it is assessed at Sereva
Assessment focuses first on what the lump is likely to be. Dr. Maggisano reviews your history, examines the mass and considers its size, depth, mobility and location.
Imaging or further investigation may be recommended before treatment is planned — particularly for lumps that are larger, deeper, firm, fixed or changing.
Only after assessment can it be determined whether removal in an office setting is appropriate for your particular mass.
Treatment options that may be available
- Excision of appropriate superficial lipomas and selected soft-tissue masses under local anaesthetic
- Further imaging or investigation first, where that is needed to guide the recommendation
- Referral for specialized or hospital-based management where a mass is deep, large, complex, or where the diagnosis warrants it
Which of these applies to you — if any — depends on your individual assessment.
What to expect during treatment
Where office-based removal is appropriate, the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic in our clinic.
The area is numbed, the mass is removed through a planned incision, and the skin is closed.
Removed tissue may be sent for pathology when the surgeon considers it appropriate, and you are told what to expect before you leave.
Recovery and follow-up
Recovery varies with the size, depth and site of the mass, and with your own health and activity. You receive individualized guidance rather than a fixed timeline.
Wound-care instructions, activity advice and follow-up arrangements are provided in writing.
Pathology results, where applicable, are reviewed with you and communicated to your referring clinician.
Suitability, fees & OHIP coverage
Whether treatment is appropriate, and whether it is covered by OHIP, depends on your diagnosis and on the recommended treatment. Some procedures are insured when they are medically indicated, while many removals performed for benign or appearance-related reasons are uninsured. Where a fee applies, it is explained to you before anything proceeds, so you can decide how you would like to continue.
Contact us
Assessment with Dr. Maggisano is the first step in understanding your options. Get in touch to arrange a visit.
This page is general information and is not a substitute for an individualized surgical assessment. Only an in-person consultation can determine what is appropriate for you.