Is a Lipoma a Tumor?

Lipomas, by definition, are benign masses that are composed of fat cells. They are characterized as tumors because they are composed of proliferative fat cells that are of the same genetic composition. There are other types of fatty tumors that are cancerous but they differ significantly from lipomas in terms of growth pattern, invasion into adjacent structures, and time line of growth.

Lipomas are diagnosed on examination and by history. The true diagnosis is only made after examination by a pathologist.

The good news about lipomas is that they are generally easily removed as they do not invade other structures. They are generally shelled out with the capsule intact.

Consult with a plastic surgeon who can minimize the size and extent of the incision.

A lipoma could be considered a tumor, as it is a collection of fat (adipose) cells that form a mass. However, this does not mean that it is a malignant (cancerous) tumor or mass. Lipomas are almost always benign growths. Cancer can cause masses or enlarged lymph nodes, but does not cause benign lipomas. Having a lipoma is also not a sign that a patient has cancer. Lipomas are very common.
All the best,

Lipomas are indeed a tumor.  However they are typically benign.  Having said that, how do you know that what you are feeling, or seeing is a lipoma ?  You should be evaluated, and in most cases I would recommend removal of the growth to ensure that it is indeed a benign lipoma and not something more ominous.

Removal in my hands, is typically performed under local anesthesia, often on the same day the patient is seen.