Lipoma is a soft fatty tissue lump accumulated underneath the skin. It is slow growing, painless, and non-cancerous. Lipoma is a very common soft tissue tumour, with size varying from 0.5 inches to 8 inches and number range from 1 or 2 to 20 and more. Around every 1 in 1000 individuals carry a chance of developing lipoma.  It can form in people of any age, however, mostly develops between 40-60 years of age. 

Although the ideal cause of developing lipoma is unknown, but it is believed to exits more among physically inactive people. Males have slightly higher chances of developing lipoma, than females. A lipoma can occur in any part of body, but mostly it is grows on arms, underarms, hips, thighs, back, and shoulders. It relates to genetics and tends to run in families. 

Usually they are just fat tissues accumulating under skin, causing no other harms. However, in rare cases, these tissues can undergo structural changes and from liposarcoma i.e. a fat cell cancer. Ideally, lipoma does not need medical attention unless it affects you. But, if the tumour appears grown or swollen, it is good to take a doctor’s advice. A simple medical examination can diagnose lipoma, while some other tests and procedures will be required to confirm whether or not it is harmful. 

Since, lipomas are non-damaging, they are mostly left untouched by the physicians. Still it can be treatable, if needed. Steroids, liposuctions and surgeries are the available options and can be opted as per doctor’s suggestions.