Treatment guide · Skin Conditions
Lipoma Removal in Seoul
A short procedure under local anaesthetic to remove a soft, fatty lump under the skin.
Ask the clinic for: 지방종 제거
Quick answer
Lipoma removal is minor surgery to take out a lipoma, a soft, harmless lump of fat under the skin. In Seoul it is usually done under local anaesthetic by excision. It costs about ₩300,000–₩1,500,000 depending on size and site, takes 20–60 minutes, needs stitches for 7–14 days, and a removed lipoma rarely returns.
Estimated cost in Seoul
₩300,000–₩1,500,000
Treatment time
20–60 minutes
Downtime
Light activity next day; stitches 7–14 days
Results show
Immediate
Results last
Permanent for that lump
Sessions
1 procedure plus stitch removal
Lipoma Removal explained
A lipoma is a slow-growing, soft, movable lump made of fat cells, usually found on the shoulders, back, neck, arms or thighs. It is almost always benign. People remove lipomas because they grow, cause discomfort or are visible.
How Lipoma Removal works
After an exam and often an ultrasound, the doctor numbs the area with local anaesthetic. A small cut is made over the lump and the fatty tissue is removed in one piece, then the skin is stitched. Some clinics remove small lipomas through a very small opening. The tissue may be sent to a lab to confirm it is a lipoma.
Who Lipoma Removal is for
- A soft, slow-growing lump that has been examined
- Lumps that cause pain, rub on clothing or are growing
- Visible lipomas on the arms, back, neck or forehead
- People who can keep stitches dry for about a week
Who should avoid Lipoma Removal
- Hard, fixed, painful or fast-growing lumps without proper tests
- Very large or deep lumps, which may need a hospital surgeon
- Active skin infection in the area
- Blood thinners, unless the doctor plans around them
- Visitors flying out the day after surgery on a long-haul flight without doctor approval
What happens at the appointment
- Consultation and exam, often with ultrasound
- Area marked and numbed with local anaesthetic
- Small cut made and the lipoma removed
- Wound closed with stitches and dressed
- Wound care explained; stitches out in 7–14 days
Aftercare and flying home
- Keep the wound clean and dry for 24–48 hours or as told
- Avoid heavy exercise and lifting for about a week
- Take only the pain relief the doctor approves
- Plan stitch removal in Seoul or arrange it at home
- Use silicone gel or sunscreen on the scar once healed
Side effects and risks
- Bruising, swelling and mild pain for a few days
- A scar, usually a little longer than the lump
- Infection or bleeding, which are uncommon
- Fluid build-up under the wound
- Rare regrowth if tissue is left behind
How much does Lipoma Removal cost in Seoul?
₩300,000–₩1,500,000 (about US$220–1,100) — Price depends on lump size, depth and location, whether ultrasound and lab tests are needed, and whether surgery is done in a dermatology clinic or a hospital. Prices are estimates and can change after the doctor's exam.
Why get Lipoma Removal in Korea?
Seoul has many dermatology and surgical clinics that remove skin lumps routinely, with short waiting times compared to public health systems in many countries. Insured expats may pay less when removal is medically needed.
Prices are estimates gathered for Seoul clinics and change with brand, dose and promotions — confirm a quote with the clinic before booking. This page is general information, not medical advice; a doctor will assess whether a treatment suits you at consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does lipoma removal cost in Seoul?
Expect about ₩300,000–₩1,500,000, depending on size, location and tests. The clinic will give a firmer price after examining the lump.
Does lipoma removal hurt?
The local anaesthetic injection stings briefly, then you should feel only pressure. The area may ache for a few days afterwards.
Will a lipoma come back after removal?
A fully removed lipoma rarely returns. New lipomas can form in other places, especially in people who tend to get them.
When can I fly after lipoma removal?
Many people can fly within a few days for short flights. For long-haul flights, ask the doctor, and plan for stitch removal 7–14 days after surgery.
Is lipoma removal safe?
It is a common minor procedure. Risks include bleeding, infection and scarring, and the doctor should confirm the lump is a lipoma before removal.
Can a lipoma be removed without a scar?
Every cut leaves some scar, but small-incision methods and good stitching can keep it short and faint. Scar care afterwards also helps.
Where to get it in Seoul
Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.
Pins show each clinic's neighbourhood or nearest station, not the exact door. Not every clinic offers every treatment — ask before you go.
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