- Your lipoma was removed. Pain and discomfort should diminish in 1-2 days. It may take slightly longer if the lipoma was located under the muscle.
For pain control, over-the-counter medications may be helpful unless a specific medication was prescribed. Use caution with over-the-counter medications if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, stomach ulcer, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Larger lipomas depending on location may require placement of a temporary drainage tube to minimize the accumulation of fluid in the space once occupied by the fatty growth. This drainage tube will be removed by Dr. Reid in the office in 2-7 days depending on the amount of drainage. Instructions for management of the drain will be given to you before leaving the surgical facility. Wounds located on the upper or lower limb must be elevated. A compression wrap may be applied for surgery sites on the body (trunk)
- Wounds that were sutured closed on the scalp or face can remain open to air if it can be maintained clean. Most wounds/incisions can be gently cleansed in 24 hours using a mild soap and water. Gently pat away any excess moisture. Apply bacitracin antibiotic ointment and/ or dressing after each cleaning as needed.
- Wounds closed with surgical tape should be kept dry and clean. Use a clean towel to dry area if surgical tape gets wet.
- If you notice significant pain, drainage (especially if cloudy or pus-like), redness more than 5 millimeter beyond the suture or edge of the wound, swelling, fever, and red streaking (for hand or leg wounds); please call immediately to be evaluated for possible wound infection.
- Do not shower if you have a drain, sponge bathe instead. You may shower in 1-2 days if you do not have a drain, use a towel to protect the sutures and/or surgical tape from excess water. No bath or swimming until sutures or the surgical tape is removed.
- Office follow-up: Please contact the office at your earliest convenience at (516) 365-6547 to schedule appointment so that you can be evaluated.
