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Lipoma (Fat Lump)

Generally benign, soft-textured tumors made of fat cells located under the skin.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Lipoma (Fat Lump)?

A lipoma is a benign soft tissue tumor composed of mature fat cells (adipocytes) surrounded by a thin capsule. It can be located anywhere on the body; most commonly found on the nape, shoulder, back, abdomen, and thighs.

Lipomas are mostly painless and slowly growing lesions. Rare conditions such as 'lipomatosis' (multiple lipomas together) or 'Dercum's disease' (painful lipomas) also exist.

They can rarely be confused with malignant fat tissue tumors called liposarcomas. Rapid growth, firmness, and pain may indicate malignancy and require pathological examination.

Symptoms

Soft, freely movable, well-circumscribed mass under the skin
Usually painless; however, may be painful if pressing on nerve or muscle tissue
Slowly growing swelling
Visible bulge causing cosmetic concern
Sense of tightness in the skin over large lipomas

Risk Factors

Family history of lipoma (genetic predisposition)
Age 40–60
Male sex
Genetic conditions such as Gardner syndrome and Cowden syndrome
Previously traumatized areas
Obesity (evidence that it increases lipoma frequency is limited)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Rapidly growing mass
  • Development of firmness or pain in the mass
  • Lipomas larger than 5 cm
  • Deep-seated (intramuscular or between fascia) masses
  • Lesions causing cosmetic or functional discomfort

Treatment Methods

01
Surgical excision: removal of the lipoma with its capsule (definitive treatment)
02
Aspiration with liposuction: minimally scarred alternative method for large but superficial lipomas
03
Steroid injection: may temporarily shrink small lipomas (not definitive treatment)
04
In asymptomatic, small lesions, clinical follow-up is sufficient
05
Pathological examination of the removed tissue (to rule out malignancy)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.