Lipomas can occur anywhere in the body. They are typically: Situated just under the skin. They commonly occur in the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms and thighs. Soft and doughy to the touch. They also move easily with slight finger pressure. Generally small. Lipomas are typically less than 2 inches (5 centimeters) in diameter, but they can grow. Sometimes painful. Lipomas can be painful if they grow and press on nearby nerves or if they contain many blood vessels.