Lipoma
A lipoma is a benign growth of fat.
Lipomata are very common and most commonly arise under the skin. They can also be inside muscles or within internal organs.
A lipoma is usually a painless, soft, smooth, mobile lump which slowly grows.
Most lipomas under 5cm do not need to be removed. They can be removed under local or general anaesthetic depending on their number, position and size.
Indications for surgery include pain, rapid growth, size >5cm, suspicious features on imaging such as the presence of blood vessels inside the lump (internal vascularity). An MRI may be required to further assess the lump prior to embarking on surgery.