Overview
A lipoma is a slow-growing, fatty lump that most often is located between the skin and muscle layer but below the skin. It feels soft and rubbery and often isn't tender. It also moves with slight finger pressure as if not connected to the skin above. Lipomas often are detected in middle age. Some people have more than one lipoma.
A lipoma isn't cancer, and it typically is harmless. Treatment generally isn't needed, but if the lipoma bothers you, or if it's painful or growing, you may want to have it removed.
Lipoma
A lipoma is a fatty tumor that lies just below the skin. It isn't cancer, and it's typically harmless.
Symptoms
Lipomas can occur anywhere in the body. They are:
- Just under the skin. They commonly occur in the areas of the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms and thighs.
- Soft and doughy to the touch. They also move easily with slight finger pressure.
- Generally small. Lipomas are typically less than 1 to 2 inches (3 to 5 centimeters) in diameter, but they can grow.
- Sometimes painful. Lipomas can be painful if they grow and press on nearby nerves or if they contain many blood vessels.
When to see a doctor
A lipoma is rarely a serious medical condition. But if you notice a lump or swelling anywhere on your body, have your healthcare professional check it.
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Causes
The cause of lipomas isn't fully understood. They tend to run in families, so genetic factors likely play a role in their development.
Risk factors
Several factors may raise your risk of getting a lipoma, including:
- Being between 40 and 60 years old. Although lipomas can occur at any age, they're most common in this age group.
- Genetics. Lipomas tend to run in families.
