What Are Fatty Tumors / Lipomas?

Fatty tumors, also called lipomas, are common growths of fat cells. It is unclear why they develop, but genetics may play a role, since they are common in some families. In general, lipomas are harmless, but they can occasionally cause pain or become irritated when rubbed by adjacent skin or clothing. In these instances, lipomas can be removed by simple surgery. During this outpatient procedure, the lipoma is numbed with local anesthesia, and then it is carefully dissected out of the skin through a small incision. Once removed, the wound is stitched and a small scar results.