Lipoma Specialist
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Faith Menken, MD
General Surgeon located in New York, NY
A lipoma is a slow growing lump composed of fat. Although lipomas aren’t cancerous, many patients choose to have them removed. Dr. Faith A. Menken offers surgical treatment to patients in the Upper East Side of New York at Faith A Menken MD. Patients who think they may have a lipoma should contact the office to make an appointment with Dr. Menken.
Lipoma Q & A
What is a lipoma?
A lipoma is a lump made of fatty tissue. These lumps usually develop between the muscle and skin, and they tend to grow slowly. Patients may notice that lipomas feel “doughy.” They're moveable and are rarely painful or tender.
Most patients begin noticing lipomas in middle age, but they may develop in younger patients as well. More than one of these growths may appear on the same patient. Lipomas are benign and don’t usually cause any problems for patients even if they remain in place for years.
How does Dr. Menken diagnose a lipoma?
Dr. Menken can usually diagnose a lipoma based on the results of a physical exam. However, if there is any question about the nature of a lump under the skin, Dr. Menken may perform a biopsy to rule out other conditions.
What causes a lipoma?
Doctors don’t know exactly what causes lipomas to grow. However, because this type of growth tends to run in families, a genetic cause is likely. Patients are also more likely to develop lipomas if they have Gardner’s syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or adiposis dolorosa.
Are lipomas dangerous?
Lipomas are benign and won’t turn into cancer. They don’t typically pose any danger to the patient, but they may be embarrassing or inconvenient.
Should lipomas be removed?
Lipomas don’t usually need to be removed for medical reasons. However, many people want to have them removed anyway because of cosmetic concerns. Dr. Menken can help patients weigh the risks and benefits of having a lipoma removed or leaving it in place.
How does Dr. Menken remove lipomas?
Dr. Menken can remove lipomas surgically. During this procedure, she simply accesses the growth through the skin, removes it and closes the wound. After a lipoma has been removed, it’s unlikely to recur in the same spot. However, the patient may develop new lipomas in other areas. If new lipomas develop in the future, patients can schedule another removal procedure if desired.
What are the risks of lipoma removal?
The risks associated with lipoma removal are small. However, some patients may experience bruising and/or scarring in the treated area.
Insurance
Dr. Menken accepts a number of major insurance plans. Please contact her office if you do not see your insurance plan listed.
Words from our patients
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"Dr. Menken is awesome, caring, and well trained. Her knowledge makes me feel comfortable and safe, her staff is very competent and efficient. Highly recommended."
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"I have been a patient of Dr. Menken for several years. She is wonderful. Her staff is great. I would recommend her to anyone in need of a surgeon."
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"If you are searching for a breast surgeon that is knowledgeable, experienced, thorough, informative and kind - search no more."
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"One of the best surgeons. She saved my life. The second time I got breast cancer in 2008, none of the tests showed it, but Dr. Menken didn't give up."
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"I've been treated with respect and never had to wait. She is a top-flight surgeon and is conscientious about her approach and post-op follow up."
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"When I walk in her office, she really cares about my health and healing. I wish she specialized in every area of medicine--there aren't many doctors like her."
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"I've always found her to be a highly skilled, kind, and caring physician. I would not make a decision about any surgery without consulting her."
