Lipomas

A lipoma is a noncancerous tumor made up of mature fat cells that slowly accumulates beneath the skin. These growths are usually soft, pliable, and somewhat rubbery, and they can be shifted under gentle pressure because they are not attached to deeper tissues. Most lipomas develop gradually over time, remain painless, and rarely interfere with the skin’s surface appearance. Their size can vary widely—from tiny nodules only a few millimeters across to larger masses measuring several centimeters in diameter.

In the majority of cases, lipomas are harmless and require no treatment. However, larger lesions can sometimes press against nearby nerves or muscles, which may result in localized discomfort, tenderness, or limited mobility in the affected area. While medical removal is not always necessary, many patients choose to have lipomas excised either to relieve these symptoms, to confirm the diagnosis, or simply for cosmetic reasons.

Recognizing lipomas can help differentiate them from other skin growths:

• Lipomas appear as soft, round, or oval lumps beneath the skin with a smooth surface.
• Commonly found on the neck, trunk, upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. Rarely seen on the face or scalp.
• They are usually painless, however larger lipomas can cause discomfort if they press on nerves or joints. Lipomas containing a higher number of small blood vessels are referred to as angiolipomas. Like larger lipomas, they can present with some discomfort.

The exact cause of lipomas is not fully understood. Potential contributing factors include:

• Genetics: A family history increases the likelihood of developing multiple lipomas.
• Metabolic factors: Possible associations with obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
• Age: Most common in adults between ages 30 and 60.
• Minor trauma: Some lipomas may form in areas of prior injury, though this link is not fully proven.

Most lipomas do not require treatment. When treatment is recommended, surgical excision is the most effective treatment, involving removal of the lipoma and its capsule under local anesthesia. 

Surgical excision provides permanent resolution, as the same lipoma will not return once fully excised. New lipomas, however, can develop in other areas over time.