Understanding the Formation of a Fatty Lump After a Bed Sore
I am a 35-year-old Caucasian male, weighing 180 pounds and standing at 5'7". My social habits include consuming 2 to 4 alcoholic beverages weekly, and I neither smoke nor use illicit drugs. I have noticed a fatty lump for the past couple of years. This lump appeared after I experienced a bed sore during a lengthy surgical procedure, which lasted between 10 and 14 hours, where I was positioned on my side for the surgery to remove a retrosigmoid vestibular schwannoma. As the bed sore healed, a fatty mass formed in the same area under my arm, near my rib cage, at about the level of my nipple. The approximate size is similar to that of a flattened golf ball. Recently, I underwent both an ultrasound and an MRI to investigate the issue. After consulting with a plastic surgeon, it was determined that the lump will be removed. However, the surgeon expressed uncertainty regarding its origin and characteristics, confirming it is not a lipoma or malignant tumor but rather a fatty accumulation. There’s still a question about whether this fatty lump will persist even after undergoing liposuction. Interestingly, I noticed that following the ultrasound examination, the lump noticeably shrank in size; nevertheless, it reappeared several months later. I'm seeking insights into why this fatty mass emerged in the first place, particularly in relation to the previous bed sore. Additionally, I would appreciate any information on why it might reoccur after removal.
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 1:10:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you have some understandable concerns about the fatty lump that has developed following your bed sore. This type of lump, particularly after a healing process, can be linked to various factors related to skin and tissue recovery. Here's a breakdown of the situation and what you might consider moving forward:
Main Points:
- Origins of the Fatty Lump: The lump may be related to changes in your skin and underlying tissues that occurred during the healing of the bed sore.
- Recurrence After Removal: There's a possibility that the fatty mass could recur due to the nature of tissue healing or related structural changes in that area.
Explanation:
After a pressure sore, the body may respond by forming fatty tissue or fibrosis (thickening of tissue) in the affected area as it heals. This can occur because:
- Inflammation and Healing: After an injury like a bed sore, your body sends healing cells to the area, which can lead to the accumulation of fatty tissue or scar tissue.
- Altered Blood Flow: Pressure sores can also change how blood flows in that area, affecting the way tissues repair themselves.
Regarding the recurrence of the lump after removal, factors may include:
- Cellular Behavior: Sometimes the body can regenerate the fatty tissue, especially if there's a history of inflammation or disruption.
- Incomplete Removal: If not all the fatty tissue or associated tissues are completely removed during the procedure, there’s a chance it can return.
Next Steps:
-
Prepare for Surgical Removal:
- Follow any pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure the best outcome.
-
Post-Surgery Care:
- Pay close attention to your recovery after the surgery. Proper wound care can help minimize the chances of recurrence.
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Monitor Changes:
- Keep track of any changes in the lump or surrounding area, and consult your surgeon if you notice anything unusual.
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Discuss Concerns with Your Surgeon:
- It may be helpful to ask your surgeon about any specific steps you can take post-surgery to minimize recurrence and what to watch for after the procedure.
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Stay Informed:
- Since you have had imaging studies and consultations, maintain open communication with your healthcare team for any updates on the lump's characteristics or any additional tests that might be necessary in the future.
These steps can help you navigate your situation effectively. It's great that you're seeking answers and being proactive about your health. If additional questions arise or if you wish to explore more about this condition, feel free to reach out.
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