Lipomas, Lumps and Bumps

A lipoma is a slow-growing, fatty lump that's most often situated between your skin and the underlying muscle layer. A lipoma, which feels doughy and usually isn't tender, moves readily with slight finger pressure. Lipomas are usually detected in middle age. Some people have more than one lipoma.

Lipomas are harmless although a very small proportion can become a form of cancer. 

Any new lump should be investigated. Most of the time it will be nothing to worry about, but the only way to make sure is through an examination and possibly a biopsy (tissue sample).

If the lump is causing pain or pressure on a nerve for example, surgery is indicated. This will most likely be a day case under local anaesthetic.