Written and medically reviewed by: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD, General SurgeryLast updated:
Soft Tissue Masses — Lipoma
Benign fatty tissue tumor
A lipoma is a slow-growing, usually painless mass of fat cells. It often feels soft and mobile under the skin. Observation or surgical excision is discussed based on size, location, cosmetic concern, pressure symptoms, or diagnostic uncertainty.
Outcomes of any surgical or interventional procedure may vary from person to person. Please seek a detailed consultation with your physician before any procedure.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Figure summary
Hero figure: subcutaneous lipoma between skin and fat.
Key points
Typical findings
Soft, mobile, slow-growing mass. Most are solitary; pain is uncommon unless there is pressure or trauma.
- Neck, shoulder, back, arm, and abdomen are common sites
- Overlying skin color is usually normal
- Infection in a lipoma is rare
- Key note inside
What must be separated from lipoma
Liposarcoma or deep soft-tissue tumors can sometimes feel like a “fatty lump.” Deep location, rapid growth, size over 5 cm, or septation/heterogeneity on MRI raises concern. “Stable for years” alone does not rule out liposarcoma — watch growth rate.
When is surgery discussed?
Asymptomatic lesions may be observed. Excision is planned for cosmetic concern, pressure pain, rapid growth, diagnostic doubt, or when pathology confirmation is desired.
How excision is usually done
Most cases are removed under local anesthesia or brief sedation. Deep or multiple lesions may need general anesthesia. Complete removal lowers recurrence risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is every lipoma cancer?
Most are benign. Uncertain or atypical masses need imaging and sometimes pathology — not a label based on feel alone.
Can I leave a small lipoma alone?
Often yes, if it is stable and asymptomatic. New growth or pain should trigger re-evaluation.
More chapters in this hub
Skin Cysts
Epidermoid and pilar cysts — inflammation, infection, and excision
General Diagnosis
Lipoma and skin cysts — exam, ultrasound, MRI
General Treatment
Lipoma and skin cysts — observation and excision
Nevus
Suspicious pigmented lesions — ABCDE and excision
Nevus Diagnosis
Dermoscopy, biopsy, and pathology pathway
Nevus Treatment
Excision, wide local excision, and follow-up
Liposarcoma
Deep fatty malignancy — not a lipoma
Liposarcoma Diagnosis
MRI, biopsy, and tumor board
Liposarcoma Treatment
Wide excision, radiotherapy, and surveillance
Retroperitoneal Masses
Deep abdominal tumors — imaging and resection
Appointment / info
This page is for education. It is not medical advice and does not replace a visit with your physician.
Medical editor: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD · Last medically reviewed: August 2026 · English patient-education chapter.