Overview

A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of fat cells forming a soft rubbery lump just beneath the skin. The most common benign soft tissue tumour, affecting about 1% of the population. Lipomas grow very slowly and are generally harmless. Most common on the torso, upper arms, and thighs.

Symptoms

• Soft doughy lump that moves easily when pressed; usually under 5cm
• Located just under the skin, not attached to overlying skin; most are painless; slow-growing

Causes & Risk Factors

• Exact cause unknown; family history (hereditary lipomatosis)
• Middle-aged adults most commonly affected
• Certain rare conditions: Gardner syndrome, Madelung's disease, Dercum's disease

Complications

• Benign and rarely cause complications
• Occasional pain if pressing on a nerve; cosmetic concern if large or visible
• Very rarely: rapid growth, hardening, or pain may indicate liposarcoma — evaluate promptly

Diagnosis

Clinical examination: soft mobile subcutaneous lump. Ultrasound or MRI if deep, large, painful, or atypical. Biopsy rarely needed unless malignancy is suspected.

Treatment

• No treatment needed if small and asymptomatic
• Surgical excision under local anaesthetic — definitive and most common
• Liposuction for larger lipomas (less scarring)
• Steroid injections reduce size but don't remove

Prevention

No known way to prevent lipomas. Any new, growing, painful, or rapidly changing lump under the skin should be evaluated by a doctor.

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