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Lipoma
A lipoma is a soft, harmless lump of fatty tissue that grows slowly under the skin. Lipomas are very common and are not cancer, though they can be removed if bothersome.
Causes & risk factors
- An overgrowth of fat cells under the skin
- A tendency that can run in families
- Usually no clear cause
- More common in middle age
Common symptoms
- A soft, rubbery lump that moves easily under the skin
- Usually painless
- Slow-growing and small (often under 5 cm)
- Commonly on the neck, shoulders, back, arms or thighs
- Discomfort only if it presses on a nerve
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical examination is usually enough
- Ultrasound if the diagnosis is uncertain
- MRI for large or deep lumps
- Biopsy if any features are unusual
Treatment & management
- No treatment is needed if it is small and painless
- Surgical removal if it is large, growing, painful or unsightly
- Removal is usually a simple day procedure under local anaesthetic
- Send the removed lump for testing to confirm it is benign
When to see a doctor urgently
- A lump that grows quickly
- A lump that becomes hard, fixed or painful
- Any change in an existing lump
- A lump you are unsure about — get it checked
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about lipoma. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Can a lipoma turn into cancer?
Lipomas are benign and very rarely become cancerous. A rapidly growing, hard or fixed lump should be checked, as a rare fatty cancer (liposarcoma) can look similar.
Do lipomas need to be removed?
Not usually. They are harmless and can be left alone. Removal is optional — for comfort, appearance, or if a lump is large or growing.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.