Overview

Lipomas and moles that form on the skin are usually benign (non-cancerous) skin structures. However, these structures can be surgically removed due to aesthetic concerns, discomfort, or potential health risks. Lipoma and mole removal are among the short and minimally invasive procedures, usually performed under local anesthesia. These procedures are performed to both solve health problems and provide aesthetic improvements.

What is a Lipoma?

Lipomas are soft, usually painless masses of slowly growing fat cells located under the skin. Lipomas are generally harmless and pose no health risks. However, in some cases, they may need to be removed for aesthetic reasons or if the size of the lipoma causes pain or discomfort.

Where Are Lipomas Seen?

Lipomas can develop anywhere on the body, especially in areas with high levels of fatty tissue, such as the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen and arms.

Symptoms: They are usually slow-growing, soft, and mobile masses. They are often painless, but can cause pain when they press on nerves.

What is a Mole (Nevus)?

Moles are small dark-colored structures on the skin where melanin accumulates in large quantities. Most moles are harmless, but some can become cancerous over time. Moles that pose aesthetic concerns, irritation, or a cancer risk can be surgically removed.

Understanding Whether Moles Are Dangerous: Sudden changes in the shape, color, size or surface characteristics of moles may indicate a risk of cancer. When such changes are noticed, a dermatologist should be consulted.

When is Sebaceous and Mole Removal Necessary?

Sebaceous gland or mole removal is usually performed in the following cases:

Aesthetic Concerns: Especially in visible areas such as the face and neck, sebaceous glands or moles can cause aesthetic concerns.

Pain and Discomfort: The sebaceous gland may enlarge and put pressure on surrounding tissues or cause pain.

Cancer Risk: Especially sudden changes in moles (color, size, border irregularity, bleeding) may be a sign of skin cancer such as malignant melanoma.

Friction or Irritation: Oily patches or moles that cause discomfort can be removed by rubbing against clothing.

How are Sebaceous Moles and Mole Removal Done?

These minor surgical procedures are usually performed under local anesthesia, in an outpatient setting, and have a rapid recovery process.

Fat Gland Removal (Lipoma Excision):

Local Anesthesia: The area to be treated is anesthetized.

Incision and Removal: The surgeon makes a small incision and removes the fatty tissue. The lipoma is completely removed and the incision is stitched up.

Healing: The healing process usually takes a few weeks and scarring is minimal.

Mole Removal (Nevus Excision):

Local Anesthesia: The area where the mole is located is anesthetized.

Excision: The mole is cut out and the area is closed, usually with a few stitches. If the mole is at risk of cancer, it is sent to a lab for a biopsy.

Healing: The healing process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size and location of the area.

Laser Treatment: Some moles can be removed with a laser instead of cutting them out. This method is usually used for aesthetic purposes and leaves fewer scars.

Post-Procedure Care

Things to consider after the procedure:

Bandaging and Cleanliness: The surgical area should be kept clean and the bandage should be changed regularly.

Pain Management: Pain is minimal and can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Stitches: Stitches may need to be removed, but in some cases, self-dissolving stitches may be used.

Scarring: After minor surgical procedures, slight scars can usually be left. Plastic surgery techniques are performed to minimize scars.

Risks and Complications

Liposuction and mole removal are considered safe procedures, but some complications can occur, although rare:

Infection: There is a risk of infection in the surgical area, so hygiene rules should be followed.

Bleeding: Although rare, bleeding may occur after the procedure.

Scar: Especially when large oil glands or moles are removed, a scar may remain.

Conclusion

Liposuction and mole removal are minor surgical procedures that usually result in a rapid recovery process. Performed by experienced surgeons such as Op. Dr. Çağlar Ertekin, these procedures play an important role in relieving patients' aesthetic and health concerns. Liposuction or mole removal often provides both health and aesthetic benefits and generally carries minimal risk.