Post-Operative Lipoma Care and Rosacea Management in a 36-Year-Old Female: A Case from Village Dermatology in Katy & Houston, Texas

By: Dr. Caroline Vaughn


At Village Dermatology, serving patients in Katy and Houston, Texas, we often manage complex cases involving both surgical and cosmetic dermatology concerns. This case report highlights a 36-year-old female who presented for a post-operative wound check following the removal of a lipoma on her right posterior shoulder, alongside evaluation and counseling for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea and unwanted hair.

Case Summary

The patient had undergone lipoma excision with intermediate repair on July 10, 2025. Pathology confirmed a benign lipoma. During her follow-up visit, she reported mild redness, pain, and crusting along the medial edge of the surgical site. There was concern for possible spitting suture, but no residual sutures were identified.

Post-Operative Wound Findings:

  • Location: Right posterior shoulder

  • Appearance: Mild erythema and crusting at the medial incision edge

  • Healing Status: Stitches had been removed at home; no signs of deep infection

  • Plan: Alternate Vaseline and mupirocin ointment twice daily for 2 weeks, then restart silicone scar sheets to optimize healing

The patient was counseled on surgical site care, including cleansing with sterile saline, avoiding heavy lifting, and monitoring for redness, tenderness, or pus.

Concurrent Dermatologic Concerns

1. Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea
The patient reported chronic, constant facial redness, especially on the malar cheeks, unaffected by environmental triggers. Examination revealed fine visible vessels consistent with rosacea.

Management Recommendations:

  • Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen

  • Green-tinted moisturizers for cosmetic camouflage

  • Discussion of laser options such as KTP or Vbeam for vascular redness (not typically covered by insurance)

2. Unwanted Hair
The patient inquired about laser hair removal. She was counseled on safe timing relative to rosacea laser treatments and offered a referral to our in-office cosmetic team.

Dermatologist’s Insight

Dr. [Name], board-certified dermatologist at Village Dermatology in Katy & Houston, emphasizes that post-surgical follow-up is just as critical as the excision itself. Monitoring wound healing helps prevent scarring, infection, and delayed recovery. Additionally, combining medical and cosmetic care—like treating rosacea while addressing unwanted hair—can enhance both skin health and patient confidence.

Key Takeaways for Patients

  • Always attend scheduled post-operative visits, even if your wound looks “fine.”

  • Alternate topical antibiotics with petroleum jelly to maintain moisture and prevent infection.

  • Chronic redness may be a sign of rosacea—early intervention with sunscreen, gentle skincare, and laser treatments can prevent progression.

  • Cosmetic and medical dermatology can work hand-in-hand for optimal results.

Village Dermatology: Your Partner in Skin Health

Whether it’s lipoma removal, rosacea treatment, or laser hair removal, our dermatologists provide personalized care backed by years of expertise. Serving patients from Katy, Texas, to Houston, we are dedicated to comprehensive skin care—from prevention to advanced treatment.

📅 Schedule your appointment today to discuss surgical aftercare, skin redness, or cosmetic options for smoother, healthier skin.

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Treatment of Superficially Invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Case Report from Village Dermatology in Katy & Houston, Texas

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New-Onset Plantar Warts in an 11-Year-Old Male – Case Report from Village Dermatology in Katy & Houston, Texas