What type of specialist would remove a lipoma from the right anterior neck?

Specialist Selection for Lipoma Removal from Right Anterior Neck

For a lipoma in the right anterior neck, a head and neck surgeon (otolaryngologist) or surgical oncologist is the most appropriate specialist for removal, especially if the lipoma is large (>5 cm) or deep-seated. 1

Specialist Options Based on Lipoma Characteristics

Primary Considerations:

• Head and Neck Surgeon (Otolaryngologist):

  • Best equipped for anterior neck procedures due to expertise in neck anatomy
  • Trained to identify and protect vital structures (carotid artery, jugular vein, nerves)
  • Experienced with neck dissection techniques 2

• Surgical Oncologist:

  • Preferred for large (>5 cm) or deep lipomas
  • Recommended when there's concern for atypical features or malignancy potential 1

Secondary Options:

• Plastic Surgeon:

  • Consider for cosmetically sensitive cases or when reconstruction might be needed
  • Particularly valuable when the scar appearance is a primary concern 1

• General Surgeon:

  • May handle uncomplicated, superficial lipomas
  • Less specialized in neck anatomy than head and neck surgeons

Decision Algorithm Based on Lipoma Features

1. If lipoma is large (>5 cm) or deep-seated:

   • Head and neck surgeon or surgical oncologist 1

2. If lipoma has atypical features (rapid growth, pain, irregular borders):

   • Surgical oncologist for proper evaluation and wide excision 1

3. If lipoma is in a cosmetically sensitive area with normal features:

   • Head and neck surgeon or plastic surgeon 1

4. If lipoma is small (<5 cm) and superficial:

   • Any of the above specialists, including general surgeons with experience

Important Considerations

Pre-surgical Evaluation

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) may be performed to confirm diagnosis 2, 3
• Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, or MRI) may be necessary for deep lipomas or those with atypical features 3, 4

Surgical Approach

• Anterior neck lipomas require careful dissection around vital structures 3
• Complete excision with capsule is recommended to prevent recurrence 5
• The procedure typically requires general anesthesia for anterior neck lipomas 3, 6

Potential Complications

• Risk of injury to vital neck structures including nerves, vessels, and airway
• Cosmetic concerns with scarring in the visible neck area
• Rare but serious complications like hematoma formation or infection

Clinical Pearls

• Anterior neck lipomas may occasionally cause dyspnea or discomfort, especially when large 3
• Lipomas must be distinguished from liposarcomas, which have similar appearance but require more aggressive management 1, 7
• Surgical excision remains the definitive treatment for symptomatic or enlarging lipomas 5

Remember that while most lipomas are benign, proper specialist selection ensures appropriate evaluation for rare malignant variants and optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes.