Lipoma
Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps that grow under your Skin. They're harmless and don't usually need any treatment.
Check if you have a lipoma
Lipomas are common. They:
feel soft and squishy
can be anything from the size of a pea to a few centimetres across
may move slightly under your skin if you press them
aren't usually painful
often appear on your shoulders, chest, arms, back, bottom or thighs
grow slowly
You must see your GP/doctor if:
you get a lump anywhere on your body
your lump is painful, red or hot
your lump is hard and does not move
Your GP will usually be able to tell if the lump is a lipoma. If there is any doubt, they may refer you for a scan to check it out. In rare cases lumps under your skin can be a sign of something more serious.
Getting a lipoma removed
Lipomas are harmless. They are not usually treated on the NHS. You can pay a private clinic to remove a lipoma but it may be expensive. Your GP can give you advice about where to get treatment.
