A lipoma is a benign (noncancerous) tumor made up of fat tissue cells. These growths are usually located just under the skin but can appear anywhere in the body.

They often feel soft and can be easily moved beneath the skin. Lipomas are rarely painful and usually grow slowly over time, often not requiring treatment.

Since it can be difficult to tell if a lump is benign or cancerous, understanding the signs and symptoms of a lipoma can help distinguish it from more serious growths.

Painless

Lack Of Pain
A lipoma is usually painless and not tender when touched. In rare cases, if a lipoma grows large enough to press on nerves or organs, it may cause discomfort or pain. Some may even press on the bowels, potentially causing a blockage.

An exception is Dercum's disease (also called adiposis dolorosa or Anders’ syndrome), which leads to multiple painful lipomas across the trunk, upper arms, or legs.

If a lipoma becomes painful, large, or restricts movement, it is important to seek medical evaluation.

Soft

Texture And Feel
Lipomas are soft and can be moved easily with your fingers. They typically have a smooth, round, or oval shape and are usually the same color as your skin.

They feel doughy or squishy. A lump that feels firm or hard to the touch should be checked by a healthcare provider, as this is not typical of a lipoma.

Location

Where Lipomas Form
Lipomas can develop anywhere in the body but most often appear in the subcutaneous tissue (the fat just beneath the skin). Rarely, they may grow deeper in muscle or fascia tissue.

They are most common on the trunk and upper extremities. While many lipomas occur as single growths, some people may develop multiple lipomas at once.

Cancerous lumps differ because they often grow deeper into the body, making them harder to detect through touch.

Slow Growth

Growth Pattern
Lipomas usually grow slowly, often remaining small for years. They generally range between 1 and 10 centimeters in diameter, though some may grow larger.

Rapidly growing or unusually large lipomas may signal a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. A biopsy may be recommended to confirm whether the growth is benign or malignant.

When Is A Lipoma Serious?

While lipomas are benign and often harmless, there are situations where they may indicate a more serious health condition.

  • Liposarcoma: A rare cancerous tumor that may resemble a lipoma but grows much faster.

  • Familial multiple lipomatosis: A rare inherited condition in which multiple lipomas form throughout the body, often affecting multiple family members.

Shape

Appearance
Lipomas are usually round or oval and measure less than 10 centimeters in diameter, although larger ones can occur.

Cancerous lumps are often irregular, angular, or asymmetrical in shape, making them feel quite different from a typical lipoma.

Symptoms In Children

Lipomas In Younger People
Lipomas are uncommon in children. However, angiolipoma—a related condition—can occur in adolescents and young adults.

Angiolipomas are small nodules (0.5–2 cm) found in the fat tissue, often in the forearms or chest wall. Unlike lipomas, they are usually painful and tender to the touch.

When To Contact A Healthcare Provider

Most lipomas are harmless, but medical attention is advised if you notice a lump that is:

  • Painful or tender

  • Growing rapidly

  • Limiting movement

  • Firm or hard

  • Located deep in muscle tissue

Treatment typically involves surgical removal. Once removed, lipomas rarely grow back.

A Quick Review

A lipoma is a benign growth of fat cells that usually appears just under the skin. They are soft, painless, and slow-growing, often found on the trunk or upper body.

They can usually be pushed or moved under the skin and are doughy to the touch. While most lipomas require no treatment, seek medical advice if your lump is painful, growing, firm, or causing other issues.