Lipomas are the most common benign soft tissue growths. Lipomas are fat cells growing inside a thin fibrous capsule, usually found under the skin. They are most often found on the trunk, neck, upper thighs, upper arms and armpits, but can be found almost anywhere on the body. There may be several at the same time. What causes lipomas? The causes of lipomas are not fully understood, but they have a tendency to be genetic. Minor injuries may trigger the growth. Obesity does not cause lipomas. What are the symptoms of lipoma? Lipomas are generally: 1. small nodules 0.4 to 3 cm in size under the skin; 2. mobile, soft, homogeneous, rubbery nodules; 3. painless; 4. remain the same size for many years or develop slowly; 5. usually the most bothersome symptom is the location of the growth or the enlargement that is noticeable. How is a lipoma diagnosed? Lipoma is usually diagnosed by touch on physical examination. How are lipomas treated? Lipoma usually does not require treatment. Because lipomas are not cancerous growths, they do not become cancerous. However, there is no proven treatment to prevent the growth of lipomas. Lipomas may be surgically removed if they have symptoms such as: 1. become painful, repeatedly infected or inflamed, foul-smelling secretions, interfere with movement or function, or become large 2. There is concern about unsightliness. Most lipomas can be done in an outpatient operating room. The surgeon cuts the skin over the surface of the lipoma under local anesthesia, removes the tumor, and closes the incision. For some lipomas, if it cannot be done under local anesthesia you can choose to have it removed in the operating room under general anesthesia. Who is prone to lipomas? Lipomas can occur in any age group and are most often seen in middle age. Single lipomas occur with equal frequency in men and women. Multiple lipomas occur more frequently in men.