Is Lipoma Treatment Painful?

Most lipomas are painless and don’t require treatment. However, they do not go away on their own. They tend to increase in size and become more bothersome over time. Treatment may be necessary if a lipoma becomes painful, grows, or causes discomfort. Lipoma removal is typically done with local anesthesia. Some discomfort, swelling, or bruising may occur after the procedure, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week. Patients generally require just Tylenol and ice packs following surgery.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

The number of appointments for lipoma treatment typically depends on the size and location of the lipoma and the chosen treatment method. Generally, you’ll need at least three appointments: Consultation: During your first appointment, Dr. Michelle Copeland or Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin will evaluate your lipoma and discuss your options. This is a great time to ask any questions about the procedure, recovery, and expected results. Surgical appointment: If you decide to proceed with removal, your second appointment will be for the procedure itself. Depending on the number and size of lipomas being treated, this can often be done in one session. Follow-up appointment(s): If you undergo lipoma removal, you will come for follow-up after your procedure. Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin take a hands-on approach to your care to ensure optimal results. To schedule a consultation, call 212-452-2200 or fill out the contact form on their website.

How Long Until I See Results?

Results from lipoma treatment can be seen immediately after the procedure. Once the lipoma is excised, the area will look flatter, and any noticeable bulge or lump will be gone. However, some swelling or bruising may occur, which can take a few days to subside. Full healing and the final appearance may take a few weeks as the skin settles. Dr. Michelle Copeland and Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin will guide you through recovery to ensure you’re seeing the best possible results. To schedule a consultation, call 212-452-2200 or fill out the form on our website.

Can I Combine Lipoma Treatment With Other Procedures?

If you’re considering body contouring or liposuction, removing a lipoma can be done alongside these procedures for a smoother, more refined result. It’s important to discuss your options with Dr. Michelle Copeland and Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin to ensure the treatments are appropriate for your individual case.

What Are the Risks Associated With Lipoma Treatment?

It’s important to be aware of potential risks and complications associated with the procedure: Infection Scarring Nerve injury Hematoma or Seroma Recurrence Contour irregularity If you’re considering lipoma removal, scheduling a consultation with Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin is a proactive step toward understanding the procedure and addressing any concerns.

Lipoma Removal

New York, NY

Introduction to Lipoma Treatment

Lipomas or fatty tumors are benign tumors of mature fat cells that may appear anywhere in the body. Although the majority of lipomas are not harmful, patients often choose to remove lipomas for aesthetic or functional reasons. The good news is that treatment is generally straightforward. Dr. Michelle Copeland and Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin are NYC lipoma removal specialists who have successfully treated patients from around the world using their unique technique of combining liposuction with direct excision. While lipoma removal surgery has traditionally required large incisions resulting in large, deforming scars, Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin’s pioneering technique results in minimal scarring and a quicker recovery time. Read more about our cutting-edge lipoma removal technique in our Combined Liposuction and Excision of Lipomas Study publication. When you schedule a consultation, we will discuss the options to provide the best results.

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What is Lipoma Treatment?

Lipomas can range in size and typically appear on the arms, back, or thighs, though they can form anywhere on the body. When removing a lipoma, removing the fatty contents and capsule is important. Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin use their unique minimal-scar lipoma removal technique with liposuction to remove lipomas completely with small incisions to avoid a large, deforming scar.

Depending on the location and size of a lipoma, additional contouring can often be performed at the time of lipoma removal to improve the aesthetic outcome. For patients desiring a no-scar technique, Kybella® is a non-surgical way to decrease lipoma size with no downtime.

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What Are the Benefits of Lipoma Treatment?

The main advantage is the removal of the lipoma, which can lead to a smoother body contour and alleviate any discomfort caused by the mass pressing against muscles or nerves. Treatment can also improve overall appearance, particularly if the lipomas are in visible areas like the arms, back, face, or thighs.

Traditional lipoma removal surgery is often painful and results in large scars (so patients are often left choosing between having a large mass or a large scar) and requires a prolonged recovery, but Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin’s unique minimal-scar technique limits scarring with minimal downtime and discomfort.

Who Are the Best Candidates For Lipoma Treatment?

The best candidates for lipoma treatment are individuals with one or more benign fatty growths, typically on the upper body, arms, or thighs. Treatment may be recommended if the lipomas are causing discomfort or pain or affect your appearance. While lipomas are generally harmless, they have a tendency to increase in size over time and do not go away on their own. For this reason, professional evaluation and lipoma removal surgery are generally recommended for those whose lipomas have become increasingly bothersome, experience growth, or develop complications like nerve pressure or discomfort.

Your Lipoma Treatment journey

What’s the First Step?

The first step in treating a lipoma is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michelle Copeland or Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin in New York City. They will examine the lipoma to assess its size, location, and characteristics. In some cases, imaging studies like an ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to understand its structure better.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin, you can call our office at 212-452-2200 or fill out the contact form on our website.

What to Expect on the Day of Lipoma Treatment Surgery

Lipoma removal surgery takes place in our private AAAASF-accredited surgical suite and is usually completed under local anesthesia. The focus is on removing the benign fatty growth with minimal discomfort and scarring.

Your surgeon begins by making a small, carefully placed incision over the lipoma, which allows access to the fatty tissue beneath the skin. Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin’s technique often involves hiding the incision to minimize visible scarring and using liposuction to completely remove the lipoma, including the capsule.

Once the lipoma is fully removed, the incision will be closed with sutures.

The goal of the surgery is to completely excise the lipoma while ensuring that the surrounding skin remains intact and the area heals well. Once fully healed, there will be little evidence of the procedure.

Your guide to post-treatment care

Lipoma Treatment Recovery

Most patients experience a straightforward recovery process after lipoma removal surgery. Depending on the size and location of the lipoma, they can typically return to work the next day and daily activities within a few days.

It’s common to have some swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort at the surgical site, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week.

Dr. Michelle Copeland and Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin provide personalized care to ensure a smooth recovery. To schedule a consultation, call 212-452-2200 or fill out the contact form on their website.

How Much Does Lipoma Treatment Cost in New York City, NY?

The cost of lipoma treatment in New York City can vary depending on the size, location, and number of lipomas and the specific type of treatment recommended. For a more accurate estimate, it’s best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michelle Copeland and Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin, who can provide a personalized treatment plan and detailed cost breakdown.

To schedule, call 212-452-2200 or fill out the online form to get in touch with their office.

Why Choose Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin?

Dr. Michelle Copeland and Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin are experts in lipoma treatment, offering personalized care with advanced techniques. They have published their unique lipoma removal technique in a peer-reviewed journal, and patients have traveled from around the world for their expertise.

Dr. Copeland, a Harvard-trained surgeon with dual doctorates in medicine and dentistry, has decades of experience and serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor at Mount Sinai. She is double board-certified in general surgery and plastic surgery and Ivy League trained. Dr. Copeland-Halperin brings a wealth of knowledge and a humanistic approach to caring for her patients.

We serve a global clientele, providing in-person and virtual consultations to tailor your treatment plan. Whether you’re considering surgery or other options, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

What Our Patients Are Saying

“Outstanding”

Normally the bulk of the reviews I write for the most part are about restaurants, however there are times such as now that I need to write about something else. This review is my way of thanking Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin for taking me as a patient to remove a lipoma on my back. The technique that she and her mother also Dr. Copeland use is one that they created and instead of making a large incision they make an extremely small one and then use liposuction to remove the entirety of the lipoma. What that does is to make the healing process much quicker and less onerous. The care provided was outstanding and her PA Lauren was wonderful as well. Sam, the office manager tries to accommodate your schedule so that everything runs seamlessly. Thank you all again for the way everything was handled.

“Precision and skill”

For years, I had a large lipoma on my forehead, unsure of who could remove it safely and with a result I’d feel confident about. After consulting with six different dermatologists, I still hadn’t found the right fit. I did more research on my own and came across Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin – and I’m so glad I did.

Form the first consultation, her bedside manner put me at ease. She took the time to thoroughly answer every question I had, never rushing through the appointment. When it came to the surgery itself, Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin’s precision and skill were exactly what I’d been hoping for all along.

If you’ve been searching for a surgeon who specializes in lipoma removal, I can’t recommend Dr. Copeland-Halperin enough. Her staff is kind and welcoming – do not hesitate to call and book a consultation at 212-452-2200.

“Amazing job”

I had such a great experience with Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin. I found her through ChatGPT and I’m so glad I did. She performed my lipoma removal surgery and did an amazing job. From the consultation to the procedure and follow-up, everything was handled with care and professionalism.

She made me feel completely comfortable and confident every step of the way. The results look beautiful and natural, and I’m really happy with how everything turned out. I would absolutely recommend Dr. Copeland-Halperin to anyone considering a similar procedure.

“Highly recommend”

I went to see Dr. Libby to remove a lipoma on my forehead, an injury I sustained from my Brazilian jiu jitsu practice. Overall, I highly recommend Dr. Libby to anyone seeking professional medical services.

Here are a few key highlights from my experience. First, Dr. Libby communicated extremely well. Throughout the process, she kept me well-informed about the pre, during and post events, specifically what to expect in each of the stages and addressed questions I had. Next, she dove into the details to thoroughly understand the situation. For example, my dermatologist ordered an ultrasound imaging for the bump; the technical writeup was not conclusive on the lipoma. Dr. Libby, under her own conviction, contacted the technician to ask questions and confirm her expectations and came back to me with results. Third, Dr. Libby performed the removal procedure flawlessly. I had local anesthesia and was able to chat with her during the process. Lastly, the entire office was a pleasure to work with. Lauren and Andrea were great with follow up details and I was pleased throughout the process.

“Phenomenal!”

I am a physician and very particular about who I will see for medical care. Dr. Copeland-Halperin is phenomenal! She is able to remove lipomas, including clusters and larger ones, through the tiniest incisions with great care given to minimize any potential scar. She is experienced, tremendously talented, and could not have a better bedside manner. She and her staff did a wonderful job of handling any pain and anxiety during my lipoma removal surgery. I highly recommend her and her staff for whatever your plastic surgery needs may be.

“Thank you!”

Dr. Michelle Copeland removed a very large neck lipoma using her “scarless” combined liposuction/excision surgical procedure. The results are excellent. The small incision made under my chin is barely visible. It has been almost a year since the procedure was completed and there are no visible signs of the lipoma returning.From initial contact through to follow-up, Dr. Copeland and her staff were attentive, caring and professional. They also helped ensure that I had everything organized for the procedure, as I was arriving from Canada.

I would recommend the expertise of Dr. Copeland and the minimally invasive cutting-edge lipoma removal procedure that the clinic offers. Having this procedure done spared me from having the lipoma removed using the standard practice of direct surgical incision.
Thank you, Dr. Michelle Copeland, Andrea, Lauren, Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin and Dr. James O’Neill and the rest of the team.

“The right choice”

After meeting with three different surgeons, I knew right away that Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin was the right choice to remove my lipoma on my right scapula. She made me feel comfortable, answered all my questions, and truly cared about me as a patient. Her staff was just as kind and attentive, both before and after the procedure. Thanks to her skill and technique, my recovery has been so much easier than I expected, and I have a minimal scar. I’m so grateful I found her, she’s not only an excellent surgeon, but also warm, compassionate, and genuine. I couldn’t recommend her more highly!

“Amazing”

This year I’ve had a procedure by Dr. Libby Copeland- Halperin ( lipoma liposuction). I can’t say enough good things about her knowledge, professionalism and bedside manner. She makes you feel so comfortable from the moment you meet her. She continues look after you with several follow up visits. I’m very happy with the results of her work. I would highly recommend her for any cosmetic or non – cosmetic surgery. She is an amazing professional and a wonderful person to work with.

“Small scar”

I went in to have a lipoma removed. I can safely say I am so happy I decided to go with Dr Copeland-Halperin for my removal. She is so knowledgeable and kind and compassionate. She made this a great experience for me. In addition, I am very happy with my scar because my main concern was having a large hideous scar but instead I have a small one inch scar that could honestly pass off as a scratch. I would highly recommend going to Dr Copeland-Halperin for your plastic surgery needs.

“Thank you”

Entire staff greets you with a smile.
Dr. Libby removed a lipoma on my neck. Dr. Libby explained the entire procedure and checked in on a daily basis after the procedure. I flew in from the Country of Colombia to visit with Dr. Libby. 100% will use their services again. Thank you.

“I Highly Recommend”

Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin performed an extraction of a 7 cm lipoma on my upper arm. Her minimally invasive extraction techniques, including the use of liposuction, allowed for a much smaller incision (about a half inch) versus other surgeons I considered. Her time and attention, personal accessibility, surgical skill and consultation support made for a smooth and stress free process. I highly recommend her as a plastic surgeon for serious consideration if you are exploring removal of a lipoma.

“Large Lipoma Removal”

There are not enough stars to give a proper review to Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin and her entire staff. I went in for a large lipoma removal on the back of my head/neck Dr. Libby Copland-Halperin and staff took all the anxiety and fears about the surgery away. My only regret is not coming in years earlier. I cannot state enough how grateful I am to have met this incredible team.

“Easy”

I had a large lipoma on my back and was told by another plastic surgeon that the incision would be very large. I had heard about Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin from my neighbor who recently had a lipoma removed. The entire process was easy with minimal pain. Most importantly, the scar is a quarter of the size it would have been had I used another doctor.

“I can’t say enough good things”

This year I’ve had two procedures by Dr. Libby Copeland-Halpern (removal of 8 lipomas & Lipodema liposuction of a forearm). I can’t say enough good things about the quality of her work, her knowledge, professionalism and bedside manner. She sets you on ease from the moment you meet her. She continues to caringly look after you with numerous follow up visits and staff calls. The entire practice was a pleasure to work with and I am very happy with the results of her work. I would highly recommend her for any cosmetic or non-cosmetic surgery. She is a true professional and a wonderful person to work with.
And as an added bonus, they have an amazing line of skin care products personally created by her mother, her partner in her practice (also a Plastic Surgeon and biochemist). It is absolutely tremendous and reasonably priced. My skin has never looked or felt more radiant and in a very short time. People are actually commenting on how wonderful my skin looks! Nothing compares to these products, and I have tried them all.

“The best at lipoma removal with minimal scarring”

If you have been thinking about getting your lipoma removed, just do it! I bumped my right shin in 2018 and wasted so many years researching non-invasive treatments because I was worried about having a large visible scar. I lost 20 lbs. this year, and it made my lipoma more prominent instead of shrinking it. I went to Dr. Copeland-Halperin all the way from DC because she is the best at lipoma removal with minimal scarring. I’m 3 weeks post-surgery, and the scar for my quarter-sized lipoma is only 2mm after following all her care instructions. It was my first surgery, and she gave me such a thorough consultation. During the removal procedure, she and Lauren, her nurse manager, had incredible bedside manner, were so reassuring, and tried to make sure that I was comfortable. I was so self-conscious about my lipoma, and Dr. Copeland-Halperin gave me my smooth leg and confidence back!

“Definitely recommend”

Had a great experience getting multiple lipomas removed. Super professional, quick, and easy service start to finish. Definitely recommend.

“Truly grateful”

I went to see Dr. Copeland-Halperin to have a lipoma removed from my back. I had spent a long time looking for a doctor who would remove it using liposuction rather than the traditional surgical approach, as I was concerned about being left with a large scar. Unfortunately, while waiting to find the right doctor, the lipoma grew quite large and I became increasingly self-conscious about it.

From my very first consultation, Dr. Copeland-Halperin made me feel comfortable, heard, and reassured. She took the time to explain the procedure in detail, answer all my questions, and make sure I felt confident in my decision. Her staff was also incredibly kind, professional, and helpful throughout the entire process.

I have now had the procedure done, and I couldn’t be happier with the result. I’m left with only a tiny scar that I’m confident will continue to fade over time. The difference in my confidence has been amazing, and I’m truly grateful to have found such a skilled and caring doctor. I highly recommend Dr. Copeland-Halperin.

Lipoma Treatment FAQs FAQs

Most lipomas are painless and don’t require treatment. However, they do not go away on their own. They tend to increase in size and become more bothersome over time. Treatment may be necessary if a lipoma becomes painful, grows, or causes discomfort.

Lipoma removal is typically done with local anesthesia. Some discomfort, swelling, or bruising may occur after the procedure, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week. Patients generally require just Tylenol and ice packs following surgery.
The number of appointments for lipoma treatment typically depends on the size and location of the lipoma and the chosen treatment method. Generally, you’ll need at least three appointments:
- Consultation: During your first appointment, Dr. Michelle Copeland or Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin will evaluate your lipoma and discuss your options. This is a great time to ask any questions about the procedure, recovery, and expected results.
- Surgical appointment: If you decide to proceed with removal, your second appointment will be for the procedure itself. Depending on the number and size of lipomas being treated, this can often be done in one session.
- Follow-up appointment(s): If you undergo lipoma removal, you will come for follow-up after your procedure. Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin take a hands-on approach to your care to ensure optimal results.
To schedule a consultation, call 212-452-2200 or fill out the contact form on their website.
Results from lipoma treatment can be seen immediately after the procedure. Once the lipoma is excised, the area will look flatter, and any noticeable bulge or lump will be gone. However, some swelling or bruising may occur, which can take a few days to subside. Full healing and the final appearance may take a few weeks as the skin settles.

Dr. Michelle Copeland and Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin will guide you through recovery to ensure you’re seeing the best possible results. To schedule a consultation, call 212-452-2200 or fill out the form on our website.
It’s important to be aware of potential risks and complications associated with the procedure:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Nerve injury
- Hematoma or Seroma
- Recurrence
- Contour irregularity
If you’re considering lipoma removal, scheduling a consultation with Dr. Copeland and Dr. Copeland-Halperin is a proactive step toward understanding the procedure and addressing any concerns.

Schedule Your Consultation

To schedule your lipoma treatment with Dr. Michelle Copeland and Dr. Libby Copeland-Halperin, call 212-452-2200 or fill out the form below. Our team is ready to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.