Lipoma Excision Recovery
Based on NHS, NICE NG12, healthdirect Australia and published surgical literature. General information only: always follow your surgical team's instructions.
Take a photo of your wound each day or every few days. The ghost overlay lines up your previous photo so you can see exactly what has changed. The reveal slider lets you drag between before and after. Bring the photos to your next appointment: your GP or surgeon will appreciate the visual record.
All photos stay on your device. Nothing is uploaded. No account needed.
📷 Open wound photo journal →- Heavy or increasing bleeding soaking through the dressing
- Your stitches or wound edges come apart
- Increasing redness, swelling, pus, or foul smell from the wound (infection)
- Fever above 38°C / 100.4°F
- Severe or worsening pain not relieved by paracetamol and ibuprofen
- New numbness, tingling, or weakness that is getting worse (possible nerve issue)
- Nausea, vomiting, or feeling generally unwell
Emergency: 000 (AU) · 999 (UK) · 911 (US)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to recover from lipoma removal?
Most people recover within 2–4 weeks. Desk work is usually possible within 1–3 days. Full physical activity resumes at 2–4 weeks depending on size and location of the lipoma.
Will my lipoma come back after surgery?
Recurrence after complete surgical excision with the capsule is low: around 1–2%. If the capsule is left behind, regrowth is more likely. New lipomas can develop at other sites.
When can I exercise after lipoma removal?
Light walking is fine within a day or two. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and stretching the wound site for at least 2 weeks. Full gym and sport usually resume at 3–4 weeks.
When do stitches come out after lipoma surgery?
Non-dissolvable stitches are typically removed at 7–14 days depending on location. Some surgeons use dissolvable stitches that absorb on their own over 2–4 weeks.
Does lipoma removal leave a scar?
Yes: every incision leaves a scar. The scar is usually the length of the lipoma diameter (typically 1–4 cm). It fades from pink or red to a fine pale line over 6–12 months with good care.
Is lipoma removal covered by Medicare or the NHS?
In Australia, Medicare covers medically necessary lipoma excision with a GP or surgeon referral. In the UK, the NHS generally funds removal only for large, symptomatic, or diagnostically uncertain lipomas: most cosmetic removals are not funded. Private removal is an option in both countries.
Your recovery toolkit
Free interactive tools to track your recovery day by day. Everything stays on your device — nothing is uploaded or shared.
These tools support — never replace — the advice of your surgical team. If something feels wrong, contact your doctor or emergency services.