Scar Avoidance in Removal of Forehead Lipomata: An Endoscopic Approach

Abstract

Lipomas are among the most commonly presenting benign forehead masses. They commonly cause cosmetic concerns for patients. The purpose of this report is to introduce a novel endoscopic technique allowing for forehead soft tissue mass removal with superior cosmetic outcomes. We detail a case of a large 3.5-cm lateral forehead lipoma that was successfully removed endoscopically through a single incision via a subtemporoparietal approach. The lipoma presented is the largest documented case removed endoscopically using this approach. We introduce a novel technique using a single incision in the temporal area to remove a forehead mass via a dissection between the temporoparietal fascia and deep temporal fascia. Our broad literature search only found one other report of this approach used for forehead lipoma removal. Our report further validates this approach and highlights its efficacy in removing large masses. Patients with cosmetic concerns about having a facial scar, children, and those with predisposition for keloids or hyperpigmented/hypertrophic scars stand to benefit most from this procedure. When comparing the endoscopic approach with the commonplace open-incision approach, our approach shows superior cosmetic results, less risk of damage to important neurovascular structures, and, most importantly, higher patient satisfaction. Even when contrasting the technique outlined in this report versus other endoscopic approaches, our method produces enhanced results.