Lipomas in dogs: removal
In some cases, lipomas in dogs can grow large and, based on location, interfere with a dog’s mobility. For your dog’s comfort, it’s best to surgically remove these lipomas. It’s important to note that the surgical removal of one lipoma does not prevent another lipoma from developing in a different area.
If the lipoma is fairly large, your vet may need to temporarily place a drain in the surgical site. This can help prevent a seroma, which is a large pocket of fluid that fills the space where the mass used to be.
It is important to follow your vet’s instructions about incision care, exercise restriction, and use of an E-collar after lipoma removal. And if you have any concerns about how the incision looks or how your dog is acting, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.
Q: Can you shrink a lipoma in dogs?
Unfortunately, at this point, surgery is really the only way to get rid of a lipoma. There is no commonly available and effective solutions to shrink a lipoma.
One small study of 15 dogs did indicate that injecting a steroid (triamcinolone acetonide) into the lipoma under ultrasound guidance could either shrink the tumor or cause it to regress completely. Unfortunately, some of these lipomas later recurred. A paper detailing the study entitled “Canine Lipomas Treated with Steroid Injections: Clinical Findings” is available if you want to read more about it. At this point, it is not a common procedure.
Previously, some vets tried injecting calcium chloride into subcutaneous (i.e. under the skin) lipomas. However, this method has fallen out of favor because it has the potential for complications such as necrosis (i.e. death) of the skin and irritation.
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To get fatty tumors removed from your dog, you should take it to your vet for advice about treatment. Often fatty tumors can be left alone, unless theyre growing rapidly, have changed appearance or texture, or are limiting your dogs body functions. For example, if the tumor is affecting its ability to walk, breathe, or swallow, your vet might recommend surgery. Dont be afraid to ask questions about the procedure and your dogs after care so you understand exactly what it involves. For more tips from our Veterinary co-author, including how to look after your dog after getting a fatty tumor removed, read on!