What is a lipoma?
A person with a lipoma has a benign tumor that lies beneath the skin surface. The tumor is composed of fatty tissue. Benign tumors are growths of abnormal cells that have formed a mass. Benign tumors are not cancerous because they do not spread to other areas of the body. The cause for lipoma is unknown, but genetics may play a role in determining risk.

What are the symptoms of a lipoma?
Symptoms of a lipoma depend on the location of the tumor. Most lipomas are painless, rubbery, flattened lumps under the skin. Usually, lipomas are less than 2 inches in diameter, and they tend to occur on the neck, shoulder, arms, and legs.

How does the doctor treat a lipoma?
Treatment of a lipoma depends on the location and size of the tumor. Treatment may include corticosteroid injections, liposuction, and surgery to remove the lipoma.