A lipoma is a benign lump of fat that grows slowly under the skin. It's the most common soft tissue tumor.
Lipoma Characteristics:
- Soft texture: Doughy — moves easily under skin when pressed.
- Slow growing: Enlarges over months to years.
- Usually painless: Unless pressing on a nearby nerve.
- Size: Usually 1-5cm — rarely exceeds 10cm.
- Common locations: Neck, shoulder, back, abdomen, arm, thigh.
Is It Cancer?
- No — lipoma is 100% benign.
- Risk of transformation to cancer (Liposarcoma) is virtually zero.
- However: any lump that grows rapidly, is hard, or painful should be examined to confirm.
When Removal Is Needed:
- Growing noticeably.
- Causing pain or pressing on nerves.
- In a cosmetically bothersome location.
- For diagnostic confirmation (histological examination).
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we evaluate the lump and remove it with a simple procedure under local anesthesia.