Endoscopic resection of forehead lipoma: A subperiosteal single-portal approach

UNLABELLED Forehead lumps which are commonly excised for cosmetic reasons, are done through a traditional open excision technique. In the Asian population, open excision commonly results in a pigmented scar which tends not to fade with time and this can be a concern to some patients. The aims of this paper are to describe an endoscopically assisted technique of surgery, with emphasis on the subperiosteal, single-portal approach; to review the outcome of the surgery, and to define the indications for its use. MATERIALS AND METHODS We describe here a case series of ten patients, in whom a minimally invasive technique was employed for the removal of a forehead lipoma via an endoscopic, single-portal, subperiosteal approach. RESULTS The patients' age ranged from 26 to 54 years and the dimensions of the masses removed ranged from 1.0 x 0.5 cm to 3.0 x 3.0 cm. All were confirmed by histological examination to be lipomata. The patients were followed up for an average period of nine months. There were no residual masses or recurrences and no complications of nerve damage. All the patients were very satisfied with their 'scar less' operations. CONCLUSIONS Endoscopic excision of forehead lipomas through a single-port approach is both safe and reliable. It is indicated in patients who are prone to scarring or who are concerned with a forehead scar.