When it comes to lipoma removal, the NHS usually provides treatment only if the lump is showing signs of being cancerous. In most cases, if the lipoma is benign and symptom-free, it’s classed as non-essential, and treatment is not typically available through the NHS. As a result, many people turn to private clinics for removal—especially when the lipoma causes discomfort, interferes with daily life, or affects self-esteem.
What are Lipomas?
Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps that develop beneath the skin, most commonly appearing on the shoulders, back, neck, face, or thighs. These lumps are non-cancerous and tend to grow slowly, often remaining harmless over the course of a person’s life. Although the exact cause of lipomas is not fully understood, they can affect people of any age and sometimes run in families due to a genetic predisposition.
While lipomas are usually painless, their size or location can sometimes lead to discomfort or cosmetic concerns. In rare instances, they may press on nearby nerves or grow large enough to limit movement, making removal necessary to improve the patient’s quality of life.
What happens if Lipomas are left Untreated?
In many cases, lipomas don’t need treatment and can be safely left alone without causing health problems. However, if left untreated, they may slowly grow over time, potentially leading to physical discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or emotional distress.
As lipomas enlarge, they can sometimes interfere with everyday movements or become more challenging to remove—particularly if they develop near muscles, nerves, or other delicate areas. Although it’s rare for a lipoma to turn cancerous, any sudden changes in size, shape, or the onset of pain should be assessed by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.
Why Doctors Tend to Avoid Lipomas
Removing a lipoma—especially if it’s large or located in a complex area—often demands careful planning and surgical precision. While smaller lipomas can typically be removed under local anaesthetic, larger or deeper growths may require general anaesthesia and a more invasive approach. This distinction between minor and more advanced surgery can lead some general practitioners or surgeons to avoid offering removal, particularly for multiple lipomas or those situated near sensitive structures.
Within the NHS, even cases that warrant general anaesthesia are carefully evaluated against strict medical necessity criteria. Lipomas that are deemed cosmetic or non-urgent are unlikely to qualify for treatment. As a result, many patients turn to private clinics for removal. However, even in the private sector, some complex cases may be declined due to the specialised skills and increased risk involved.
How the Braham Institute can Help – No Matter the Complexity
At the Braham Institute, led by Dr. Braham, we specialise in the safe and effective removal of lipomas—no matter their size, depth, or complexity. Unlike many other clinics, we do not turn patients away based on the difficulty of the case. Whether your lipoma is large, located in a delicate area, or has been declined elsewhere, we offer expert-led solutions tailored to your needs.
Dr. Braham is known for taking on complex cases with precision and care. With a strong track record of successful outcomes, we’re proud to provide patients with compassionate, results-driven treatment that prioritises both medical safety and aesthetic outcomes.
From small, superficial lumps to more involved surgical procedures, we’re here to help restore your comfort, confidence, and peace of mind. Book a consultation with the Braham Institute today and experience the highest standard of personalised care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my lipoma removed on the NHS?
The NHS does not remove Lipomas anymore as it is no longer funded by the government. The only Lipomas removed on the NHS are those which are growing quickly (within weeks) and therefore suspicious in nature, and which need to be sent to the lab for testing.
Who gets Lipomas?
Lipomas are relatively common, affecting approximately one in every 100 individuals. The development of more than one or two lipomas is uncommon, except in cases of rare inherited conditions such as familial multiple lipomatosis or dercum’s disease, which can cause widespread lipoma formation.
Distinguishing Lipomas from Cysts
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs beneath the skin that can resemble lipomas. To differentiate between the two, consider the following characteristics:
* Cysts are closer to the skin’s surface, while lipomas are deeper.
* Cysts are firm to the touch, whereas lipomas are soft, mobile, and dough-like.
* In some cases, the skin surrounding a cyst may be inflamed (red and swollen), whereas this is not typically observed with lipomas.
If external examination is inconclusive, an ultrasound scan can accurately identify lipomas and cysts. If your lipoma exceeds the size of a golf ball (approximately 5 cm or 2 inches) and causes pain, it is advisable to consult your general practitioner for an ultrasound scan. This will allow you to determine whether private surgical removal is the most appropriate course of action.
Why would someone have a lipoma removed?
Lipomas are usually removed if they cause discomfort, pain, restrict movement, are growing, or for cosmetic reasons. Removal is also advised if there’s any concern about the nature of the lump.
Will the lipoma come back after removal?
In most cases, once a lipoma is completely removed, it does not return. However, it is possible to develop new lipomas in other areas.
Are there any risks with lipoma removal surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks including infection, scarring, bleeding, recurrence, or nerve irritation. These are generally rare, especially when the procedure is done by an experienced professional.
