Lipoma Removal

For painful or growing soft tissue masses

If you have a painful or enlarging lump under the skin, you may have a lipoma. While many lipomas are harmless, some can cause pain, nerve irritation, or functional discomfort and may need medical (not cosmetic) removal.

Virtual and In-Person Consultations Available

36+

Years Combined Experience

10,000+

Procedures Performed

2x

Double Board-Certified Surgeon

Schedule Your Virtual or in-person CONSULTATION

If your lipoma is painful, enlarging, or affecting your movement or comfort, schedule a consultation. Let us determine whether your case qualifies for medically necessary removal.

Schedule Consultation

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What Is a Lipoma?

A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) fatty growth that develops just beneath the skin. They're among the most common soft tissue growths in adults -- typically soft to the touch, slow-growing, and painless.

That said, not every lump under the skin is a lipoma. Some growths that look and feel similar can occasionally turn out to be something more serious, including rare forms of cancer.

That's why any new or changing lump is worth having evaluated by a qualified physician, even if the odds are strongly in favor of it being harmless.When a lipoma is confirmed, removal is usually straightforward. Surgery is often recommended when the growth is enlarging, causing discomfort, or pressing on nearby nerves or tissue.

When to Get Evaluated

You may be a candidate for medically necessary removal if you have any of the following:

  • Pain when pressing on the lump
  • Numbness or tingling near the area
  • A mass that is growing
  • Discomfort when lying or sitting
  • Limited movement due to the mass
  • A lump larger than 2 to 5 cm

If yes, surgical removal may be medically necessary.

Surgical Lipoma Excision

Lipoma removal is performed with precision to:

  • Relieve pain and pressure
  • Remove the entire mass (not just part of it)
  • Protect nearby nerves and structures
  • Send tissue to pathology for confirmation

Large or deep lipomas require careful planning to ensure complete removal and a safe outcome.

Insurance and Coverage

Many symptomatic lipomas may qualify for insurance coverage when properly documented, and our team evaluates key factors such as:

Size and growth history

Severity and consistency of pain

Functional impact (movement, sitting, sleeping)

Prior treatment or medical documentation

Imaging findings (if obtained)

A lump larger than 2 to 5 cm

When appropriate, we assist with supporting documentation to help determine coverage.

Free Coverage Check

Enter your PPO plan and symptoms; our insurance team verifies your benefits.

Lipomas & Insurance Coverage Explained by Plastic Surgeon Dr. David Feldmar

We work with PPO plans, including:

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affiliateD SURGERY CENTERS

Linden Surgery center is an accredited Cedar Sinai ASC affiliate.
Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, Beverly Hills

Why Dr. David Feldmar

Dr. David Feldmar is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with decades of experience. Known for compassionate, personalized care and natural, proportionate results, he leads a PPO- and insurance-savvy team that guides medically necessary cases from documentation to pre-authorization. All procedures are performed in our brand-new, state-of-the-art Beverly Hills surgical facility.

Dr. Feldmar studied neuroscience, biology, and physiology at UC Davis (graduating at the top of his class) and earned his MD from the Chicago Medical School. He completed general surgery residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where he served as Chief Resident, then advanced his training with a Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center / Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City.

Patients choose Dr. Feldmar for meticulous planning, clear communication, and results that balance art and science. His approach centers on symptom relief, proportion, and safety—setting honest expectations and supporting each patient through consultation, surgery, and recovery.

Begin your journey toward confidence and timeless beauty—schedule your private consultation with Dr. Feldmar today.

Our Insurance & Approval Process

If coverage is denied, we’ll discuss appeals or transparent self-pay and financing options.

1.

Benefits Check (24–48 hrs)

We confirm PPO eligibility, in-/out-of-network status, and pre-auth requirements.

2.

Consultation & Exam

Board-certified surgeon reviews symptoms, posture, tissue weight, and treatment history.

3.

Medical Photos + Documentation

HIPAA-secure standardized photos and a conservative care summary are gathered.

4.

Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN)

We prepare the LMN detailing symptoms, functional limits, and expected tissue removal.

5.

Pre-Authorization Submission

Our team sends your pre-auth packet to your insurer and tracks updates.

6.

Approval & Scheduling

Upon approval, we schedule at our Beverly Hills surgical facility and review next steps.

What to Expect: Procedure & Recovery

Consultation & Insurance Pre-Auth

Confirm candidacy and set up the PPO coverage pathway.

  • Review symptoms, growth pattern, and functional impact
  • Examine the mass and assess size, depth, and location
  • Order imaging when appropriate (ultrasound or MRI)
  • Team checks benefits and, when indicated, submits documentation for pre-authorization

Note: Verification isn’t a guarantee of payment; final coverage is set by your plan.

Pre-Op Preparation

Plan for a smooth procedure and recovery.

  • Review medications and supplements (adjust as directed)
  • Confirm anesthesia plan (local vs sedation) and aftercare instructions
  • Complete any required labs or clearance (only if indicated)

Day of Surgery (Procedure)

A structured, safety-first experience.

  • Final exam and surgical plan review with your surgeon
  • Local anesthesia or sedation based on size and location
  • Complete excision with careful protection of surrounding structures
  • Tissue sent to pathology, then discharge with written aftercare

Early Recovery (Week 1)

Focus on comfort, swelling control, and wound care.

  • Rest, elevation when possible, and light walking
  • Keep incision clean and follow dressing instructions
  • Expect mild soreness and swelling that improves daily
  • Avoid heavy lifting, stretching, or strenuous activity

Weeks 2–6 & Long-Term Results

Gradual return to normal activity with continued healing.

  • Resume daily activities as cleared by your surgeon
  • Slow reintroduction of exercise per your surgeon
  • Scar care guidance as healing progresses
  • Review pathology results and monitor for recurrence
INSURANCE VERIFICATION

WILL MY PPO COVER IT?

Use the form on this page to share your PPO details and symptoms. Our team will provide complimentary insurance verification and follow up with next steps.

Verification isn’t a guarantee of payment. Coverage depends on your plan and pre-authorization. Next business day follow-up (Mon–Fri, 9–5).

lipoma removal FAQs

Your top questions about lipoma removal, insurance, and recovery—answered.

Is lipoma removal covered by insurance?

Insurance may cover removal if the lipoma is painful, growing, deep, or causing functional problems. Small, painless lumps removed for cosmetic reasons are typically not covered.

How do I know if my lipoma is serious?

Signs that warrant evaluation include rapid growth, firmness, pain, numbness/tingling, or size larger than 5 cm. If you notice changes, schedule an exam.

Will I need imaging?

Not always. Ultrasound or MRI may be recommended if the mass is large, deep, changing, or atypical on exam.

Is lipoma removal painful?

Removal is typically performed with local anesthesia or appropriate sedation depending on size and location. Discomfort is usually mild and manageable.

How long is recovery?

Most patients return to light activity within a few days. Larger or deeper lipomas may need a slightly longer recovery.

Can a lipoma come back?

Recurrence is uncommon when the lipoma is fully excised. Complete removal helps minimize the chance of return.

What if it is not a lipoma?

All removed tissue is sent to pathology to confirm the diagnosis and rule out atypical conditions.

Still have questions?

Ask us about lipoma removal and insurance—we’ll guide you step by step.

Real Reviews from Real Patients

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Name Surname
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Dr. Feldmar and Erica are a great team, and I consider them to be very knowledgeable and skilled. The practice itself is super friendly, yet professional, and thankfully, extremely clean. What’s great about this practice is that they have a multitude of services: they carry a variety of great lasers and non-surgical options. Recommended in the highest regard!!
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Dr. Lee was amazing. I am beyond satisfied with my results. He spent so much time with me in both my consultation and all my follow up appointments. This was my first surgery and so I was pretty nervous but he made me feel super comfortable and at ease throughout the entire process. I would absolutely refer him to my closest friends and family. 10/10 he's amazing!!!

Lauren
Patient Experience

I've had several procedures done with Dr. Feldmar, and I couldn't be happier with the results. His work is incredibly natural nobody would ever know I had cosmetic surgery unless I said so. That's exactly what I wanted. What really sets him apart is not just his skill, but also his bedside manner. He has a positive, uplifting attitude, and I always leave his office smiling.

I truly feel like he's my partner in the fight against aging and gravity. I highly recommend Dr. Feldmar to anyone considering cosmetic procedures, and I will definitely be coming back.

J. S.
Patient Experience

You're the best Dr. Lee! My surgeries were life changing and I could not have found a better surgeon!

Lauren
Patient Experience

My experience at Feldmar Aesthetics couldn't have been more amazing! I had 2 surgical procedures here and everything went better than expected. They truly care about each and every patient and call you personally to check on you throughout your recovery and entire journey. The staff in the office are also so amazing and sweet and make you feel welcome every time. Couldn't ask for a better experience and will be coming back for other things!

Taylor B.
Patient Experience

Excellent work, careful, fastidious, thoughtful with cheerful helpful staff. Not a factory... individual attention and treatment. This should be your go-to for cosmetic surgery and treatment.

Sharon Polansky
Patient Experience

I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for the outstanding care I received at your office and surgery center. Your team's professionalism and compassion made a significant difference in my experience, and I felt genuinely supported throughout the entire process. Thank you for your exceptional service and dedication to patient care.

Tiffany Fosbinder
Patient Experience

Dr. Feldmar is an excellent surgeon and fine artist of Aesthetic surgery. Brilliant mind and conservative in his approach. I highly recommend him and his team.

Kay G.
Patient Experience

Dr. Feldmar is a brilliant surgeon my experience was so pleasant And I would recommend to any of my friends.

Christine Gee
Patient Experience

Amazing customer service ~ and will be back and with smiles and many referrals! Great place! Highly recommended :)

Nicole F.
Patient Experience

Dr. Feldmar did my surgery and I am very happy with him and my results. He did a great job on the sticking it is very smooth and straight. He is a very nice doctor and took good care of me post surgery. They let me come in weekly for red light therapy treatment to help me rebuild my collagen and speed up my recovery. The services at Feldmar Aesthetics are really great. Dr. Feldmar and his staff are a great team and I would highly recommend them.

Diana Dieptrieu
Patient Experience

5 stars! Amazing dr. and team!!

Jessica K
Patient Experience

I was sent to Feldmar Aesthetics by my primary care physician - and couldn't be happier with the choice. I had a severe second degree burn, and Doctor Lee's gentle yet meticulous work allowed me to avoid skin graft surgery. His professionalism, and that of the entire Feldmar staff, allowed me to recover far quicker than anyone familiar with my wound had predicted. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Gary Gilbert
Patient Experience

Dr. Lee performed my surgery, and the results are absolutely amazing. The outcome looks completely natural, and I couldn't be happier. He is extremely caring, detail-oriented, and truly a perfectionist. There are no visible scars at all--it's incredible. I highly recommend Dr. Lee to anyone looking for a natural, refined result.

Madison M.
Patient Experience

Totally worth the drive from Bakersfield to get the best care and treatment! I am extremely happy with my experience and results here!

Angela Thornbrough
Patient Experience

Love my results. Adore Dr.Feldmar and think he is a true artist at sculpting the body. Amazing personality very professional and very personable. I always felt comfortable and wouldn't think twice about choosing him for my next procedure.

Mandy L.
Patient Experience

I am truly grateful for Dr. Feldmar and his team, who provided me with a wonderful surgery experience and I couldn't recommend them more. After consultations with different doctors in different states over the years, Dr. Feldmar immediately stood out as a physician who was not only very kind and cheerful, but he genuinely cared about my concerns right from the initial visit. He is one of very few doctors (across any medical category) that have made me feel like a human being, rather than just a "patient number" or a "dollar amount" and I didn't feel like I was on a ticking time-clock during the appointments which was exceptionally meaningful to me.

Dr. Feldmar validated my feelings and past experiences and he was honest and realistic about my options and what each choice would entail. It's very clear that Dr. Feldmar really enjoys being a physician and surgeon which translates into exceptional service and wonderful results. Whether you're looking for an initial surgery or a corrective surgery, I can recommend Dr. Feldmar with complete and absolute confidence.

There are no words to describe what it feels like to get a lost piece of yourself back, and that's because of Dr. Feldmar. I also have to thank the Patient Coordinator, Marcy — 100 stars if I could. Thank you, all, for everything!!

C. C.
Patient Experience

I had a good experience here. I definitely recommend this place for getting the results you want.

Suzie P.
Patient Experience

Dr. Feldmar is an excellent surgeon and fine artist of Aesthetic surgery. Brilliant mind and conservative in his approach. I highly recommend him and his team.

Kay Lynn Gabaldon
Patient Experience

Best Dr. in LA!

Adam Goldstein
Patient Experience

This is the best place I have ever been to! I will come back again I highly recommend this place. Everyone is so helpful and sweet. Dr. Lee is so gentle and his work is flawless! He's a complete perfectionist. The staff is also the best like ever.

Yelp Reviewer
Patient Experience

I highly recommend this place to anyone I care about. Dr. Feldmar and his staff have taken such good care me. Him and his staff have gone out of the way to take care of my every need.

The place is also gorgeous and so welcoming. Everyone there is so friendly and you can tell him and his staff really care about helping people. If you are looking to have plastic surgery or just some medical spa treatments look no further, this is the place.

Cara T.
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