What Is a Lipoma Lump?
A lipoma is a non-cancerous growth made up of fatty tissue. It forms just under the skin and is one of the most common types of soft tissue lumps. Lipomas can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most often found on the shoulders, neck, back, arms, or thighs.
How to Recognize a Lipoma
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Soft and Movable – Lipomas feel squishy, almost dough-like, and can move slightly when pressed.
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Usually Painless – Most do not hurt, though some may feel tender if they press on a nerve.
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Slow-Growing – They develop gradually over months or years.
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Size – Many are small (1–3 cm), but some can grow much larger.
What Causes a Lipoma?
The exact cause isn’t known, but factors can include:
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Genetics – They may run in families.
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Age – More common in adults between 40 and 60.
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Minor Injuries – In some cases, they appear after a bump or trauma.
Are Lipomas Dangerous?
Lipomas are benign and usually harmless. They don’t turn into cancer, but it’s important to have any new lump checked by a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options
Most lipomas do not need treatment unless they:
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Cause discomfort
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Grow quickly
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Affect appearance
Removal is usually done with a small surgical procedure under local anesthesia.
Conclusion
A lipoma is a harmless fatty lump under the skin that’s soft, movable, and slow-growing. While treatment is often not necessary, you should always get new or changing lumps evaluated for peace of mind.
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