Can lipomas grow overnight?

Question

I was lifting some bags grabbing a hold of them with my arm and I felt some pain. Similar to a bruise. Then I noticed a small lump on my inner arm. The next day the lump seems to have grown and it's become a very visible bump. I had a routine appointment with my gynecologist today (had nothing to do with the lipoma) and she said it looks like one. Is the pain normal and especially the fact that it appeared so fast?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question. Lipomas do not grow overnight but the recent injury may have drawn enough attention to the area that you noticed its location. These can typically be removed with a small, in-office procedure.  Hope this helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear user0987654321,
lipoma is a benign tumor which can't grow over night and it does't hurt. It is unlikely that the cause of your symptoms is lipoma. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

A lipoma would not grow overnight.  Lipomas normally grow very slowly.  The lump that you have on your inner arm is most likely due to a muscle strain from the lifting you did.  Lipomas are also not normally painful.  You might try taking motrin or advil for a few days to see if that helps.  If you feel there is no improvement or any worsening, you should seek medical attention in person.

Can lipomas grow overnight?

Answers (3)