Contact number: 020 7806 4060
What is lipoma removal?
Lipoma removal involves making a small incision over the lipoma, carefully removing the growth and closing the wound with stitches. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic as a day case and typically takes 20 to 60 minutes depending on the size and location of the lipoma. Most patients return home the same day and can resume normal activities within a few days.
Lipomas are most commonly found on the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms and thighs, but can occur anywhere on the body where fat cells are present. Our specialist surgeons treat patients from across London at our hospital in St John’s Wood (NW8).
Who is lipoma removal suitable for?
Lipoma removal may be recommended if your lipoma:
- Is causing pain, tenderness or discomfort
- Is growing or has changed in appearance
- Is restricting movement or pressing on nerves
- Is located in a visible area and causing self-consciousness
- Has features that warrant further investigation to rule out other conditions
Lipomas that are small, painless and not changing can often simply be monitored. Your consultant will advise on the most appropriate course of action during your initial consultation.
Consultants who perform private Lipoma Removals
How Much Does Private Lipoma Removal Cost?
from £2,400*
The cost of a private Lipoma Removal starts from £2,400* at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
*The price shown is an estimated guide to the hospital charges associated with your treatment from admission to discharge. Your final cost may vary depending on your individual clinical needs, the procedure performed, any additional treatments required, the type of implant/prosthesis used (where applicable), and the length of stay. This guide price excludes consultation fees, diagnostic tests, and professional fees charged separately by your surgeon, anaesthetist, and any other specialists involved in your care.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions about Private Lipoma Removal
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is situated in St John’s Wood (NW8), a well-connected and vibrant area of North West London, known for landmarks such as Regent’s Park and Abbey Road Studios. We are easily accessible from neighbouring areas, including Hampstead (NW3) and Kilburn (NW6):
- By Tube: St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is just a 5-minute walk from the hospital. For patients travelling from Hampstead (NW3), Finchley Road station (Jubilee Line) offers a convenient route, while Kilburn (NW6) is similarly well served by the same line.
- By Bus:
Wellington Road: Routes 13, 46, and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station, just a short walk from the hospital.
Circus Road: Routes 46 and 187 stop close to the hospital’s Circus Road entrance.
Abbey Road: Routes 139 and 189 stop near the junction where Grove End Road becomes Abbey Road, providing easy access.
- By Car: If you’re travelling from NW3 or NW6, use major roads like Finchley Road or Kilburn High Road for a direct approach.
Our hospital’s location in St John’s Wood ensures easy access for patients across London, particularly from the NW8, NW3, and NW6 postcodes
Your journey begins with an in-depth consultation with our surgical team to discuss any concerns and assess your condition. While lipomas are often diagnosed through physical examination, imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and plan the most effective removal approach.
Preparation is minimal, and our team will guide you through any necessary steps. This may include instructions on eating, drinking, and making adjustments to your medications before the procedure.
Lipoma removal is usually performed under local anaesthesia, so you’ll be awake but the area will be numbed. The procedure involves making a small incision over the lipoma, removing the growth, and closing the incision with stitches.
If required, pain relief medication will be prescribed after the procedure. Our team will ensure you have all the necessary information about any medication you may need to take during your recovery.
You’ll be given clear instructions on how to care for the incision site, including keeping it clean and dry to support optimal healing. Our team will be available to answer any questions during your recovery.
Recovery is typically quick, with most patients able to return to their normal activities shortly after the procedure. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing, and we’ll provide guidance on scar care and management if needed.
- Follow all post-procedure care instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure the best healing and cosmetic result.
- Monitor the incision site for signs of infection and report any concerns to your care team promptly.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your recovery and overall well-being.